Following the September 11, 2001, attacks, investigations revealed significant communication failures among first responders. Police and fire departments operated on incompatible radio systems, hampering coordination during the emergency response.
In response, public safety organizations across the country advocated for a dedicated, interoperable nationwide broadband network. After years of development, Congress passed the Middle Class Tax Relief and Job Creation Act in 2012 with bipartisan support, establishing the First Responder Network Authority (FirstNet Authority).
SOURCE: Homeland Security Today
DATE: February 12, 2026
Public safety advocates argue that FirstNet’s independence has been essential to its success and should be preserved in any reauthorization.
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