All 50 states, DC opt-in to FirstNet wireless broadband network for first responders

All 50 states, the District of Columbia, and two U.S. territories accepted a Radio Access Network (RAN) buildout plan for the FirstNet wireless broadband network for first responders by the time a 90-decision period came to a close on Dec. 28.

Congress approved a bill establishing FirstNet in 2012. Over the last five years, the First Responder Network Authority has worked with public safety representatives in each state and territory to develop customized plans to build out the network.

“This is a landmark day and monumental achievement for public safety — one that has been years in the making,” First Responder Network Authority Board Chair Sue Swenson said. “There are many who said this network would never happen, but public safety never gave up on their network. Because of their vision and hard-fought efforts, I can proudly say that this life-saving network is now a reality across America; FirstNet is going to enhance the safety and security of our first responders and the people they serve.”

Administered through a public-private partnership with AT&T, FirstNet aims to give first responders access to a wireless broadband network. The network will offer mission-critical capabilities like ruthless preemption for public safety.

“With every state saying `yes’ to the FirstNet plan, America’s first responders now have a nationwide interoperable network they can rely on 24/7/365 — like their mission,” First Responder Network Authority Chief Executive Officer Mike Poth said. “I applaud these governors for their decision and congratulate public safety for its advocacy and partnership throughout the process. With more than 50 states and territories participating in FirstNet, public safety is assured of an enduring, self-sufficient network to serve them for years to come.”

Governors of both California and New York announced last week that they would sign-off on the RAN buildout plan, which drew praise from the First Responder Network Authority.

“During emergencies and disasters, every second counts, and ensuring our first responders have the tools they need during a crisis is vital to the safety and security of all New Yorkers,” New York Gov. Andrew Cuomo said. “The entire state, from the Great Lakes to the most remote areas of the Adirondacks to New York City, must have seamless communication for our public safety community so that they can get more information quickly, make better informed decisions, and save lives.”

Ken McNeely, the president of the AT&T Pacific Region, applauded California Gov. Jerry Brown’s decision to opt-in to FirstNet, noting that recent wildfires underscore the need.

“As we have seen with the unprecedented 2017 wildfires, first responders tackle significant challenges every day,” McNeely said. “California has asked for and deserves a dedicated communications network to help first responders save lives. AT&T is proud to work alongside California to deliver this best-in-class network dedicated to public safety.”