Support FirstNet Reauthorization – Take Action Today!

Fire Service Leaders and Professional,

We are respectfully asking for your support in the upcoming Congressionally mandated Reauthorization for FirstNet . Reauthorization is the process by which Congress extends the legal authority, funding, and operational framework for FirstNet.

Why FirstNet Matters

FirstNet is a dedicated, exclusive communications network designed to meet the needs of first responders—not commercial interests. Since its launch, it has:

✔ Connected over 6 million devices

✔ Supported 26,000+ agencies and organizations

✔ Approved 265+ public safety devices

✔ Secured an $8 billion reinvestment from AT&T for future expansion

The Need for Reauthorization

We ask that you Take action today! Sign the petition showing your support for this program. FirstNet is OUR system; its unique structure as a government authority that ensures our interests are met, not commercial interests.

Public Safety’s vision is now a reality – FirstNet is public safety’s network operationalizing public safety spectrum to meet public safety needs. In 2012, Congress stipulated in the law that the program must be reauthorized by congress so that they could ensure that it was successful. After connecting over 6 million devices – 26,000+ agencies and organizations with over 265 user devices, FirstNet has exceeded all expectations. AT&T will be reinvesting $8 billion over the next ten years as part of phase two of the buildout.

For this highly successful public-private partnership to continue, Congress must reauthorize the FirstNet program. To preserve FirstNet’s public safety operation, board, and its independence we need your help.  Take action today! Sign the petition showing your support for this program.

Some history about why this action is critical.

In the aftermath of the 9/11 terrorist attacks, first responders faced a critical challenge—they could not communicate effectively across different agencies due to incompatible radio systems. This communication failure led to delays in coordination and response, highlighting the urgent need for a nationwide, interoperable public safety network. The 9/11 Commission Report (2004) formally recommended the establishment of such a system, but action would take years.

In 2005, Hurricane Katrina reinforced these concerns, as emergency responders again struggled with disrupted infrastructure and fragmented communication systems. Recognizing the risks, public safety organizations began pressuring the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) and Congress for a dedicated radio spectrum exclusively for emergency communications. By 2007, the FCC identified the 700 MHz “D Block” as the optimal frequency band, but a 2008 auction to develop the network failed due to a lack of commercial interest.

After years of advocacy and increasing pressure from public safety officials, Congress took decisive action. In 2012, the Middle-Class Tax Relief and Job Creation Act formally established the First Responder Network Authority (FirstNet), allocating $7 billion in funding and 20 MHz of spectrum to create a nationwide public safety broadband network (NPSBN). FirstNet was given the responsibility to build, operate, and maintain this critical network.

Between 2013 and 2017, FirstNet engaged with state, local, and tribal agencies to determine how the network should be designed. After a competitive bidding process, AT&T was awarded a 25-year contract in 2017 to develop and maintain the network, committing an additional $40 billion in investments over its lifespan.

By 2018, FirstNet was officially launched, giving first responders priority access to dedicated LTE communications across the country. Today, the network continues to expand, integrating 5G technology, rural and tribal coverage, deployable mobile cell towers, and AI-powered emergency response tools.

FirstNet remains one of the most significant advancements in public safety communications since 9/11. It has successfully created a nationwide, interoperable, and reliable system for first responders, ensuring seamless communication during disasters, emergencies, and daily operations. As the network continues to evolve, it will play an even more vital role in enhancing national emergency preparedness and response capabilities .

Please help us ensure the continued buildout and evolution of FirstNet: Take action today! Sign the petition showing your support for this program.