WASHINGTON, DC–Today, Congressman Neal Dunn (FL-02) and Congresswoman Jennifer McClellan (VA-04) announced that their bipartisan legislation, HR 7386, The First Responder Network Authority Reauthorization Act, advanced out of the Subcommittee on Communications and Technology with favorable consideration.
This legislation would reauthorize FirstNet, a nationwide, preemptive broadband network used exclusively by first responders on the ground during emergencies and disaster responses. Created by Congress to address a clear need for improved public safety communications after 9/11, FirstNet provides first responders with reliable, secure connectivity when commercial networks are congested or unavailable.
“Our nation’s heroes and public servants who put their lives on the line to protect Americans need robust and reliable communications," said Congressman Dunn. “Since 2017, we have seen success from the First Responder Network Authority. Our job in Congress includes critical oversight of the program, including transparency over the contract and maintaining accountability at all levels. FirstNet is imperative to Florida’s Panhandle before, during, and after a disaster. That is why Congresswoman McClellan and I are working on this clear mandate to ensure our local communities have the resources they need to respond to emergencies.”
“Born out of the tragedy of September 11, 2001, FirstNet plays a critical role in helping first responders stay connected during emergencies. With increasingly frequent extreme weather events like the recent winter storm that swept through much of the East Coast and the South and cost three lives here in Virginia, this could easily mean the difference between life and death,” said Congresswoman McClellan. “Congressman Dunn and I are working across the aisle to not only extend FirstNet’s current authorization, but strengthen the program’s governance, transparency and accountability measures. We have a responsibility to those we serve to not only ensure FirstNet continues to fulfill its core mission, but also to improve it for years to come.”
