FirstNet Saves Lives
Twenty five years ago, in the wake of 9/11, the United States made a solemn promise to those who run toward danger: never again will our first responders be left without the tools they need to save lives. While that promise took shape in many forms, in 2012 it led to the creation of FirstNet, a dedicated, nationwide communications network built specifically for law enforcement, firefighters, and emergency medical personnel.
Today, this essential infrastructure is at risk. The House has done its job by passing the reauthorization. Now the Senate must act with the same urgency to ensure this vital system continues to serve the heroes who protect our communities.
FirstNet has led to proven success in thousands of emergencies since its implementation more than ten years ago. It has been tested in emergencies across the country, and it has consistently delivered when traditional systems might have otherwise fallen short.
The telecommunications program was born out of the hard lessons of the September 11th attacks, when fragmented and overloaded communication systems hindered coordination among first responders. Years later, legislators recognized that the safety of the country could not rely on traditional networks never designed for crisis conditions. The answer was a network built with a singular mission: to serve those who serve.
Since its launch, FirstNet has grown into a nationwide platform that supports millions of connections across thousands of government agencies, ensuring first responders can communicate even when networks are congested by chaos. The system has transformed the safety of rural communities where gaps in networks once put lives at risk. It also supports real-time data sharing, allowing emergency personnel to make faster, better-informed decisions.
Reliable communication is important. In an emergency, it is essential. Any delay can cost lives. As FirstNet’s reauthorization goes to vote in the Senate, it’s crucial for lawmakers to recognize the success it’s had across the country.
Numerous organizations across the political spectrum have already come out in support of the program’s effectiveness. By allowing this authority to lapse, it would create uncertainty at precisely the moment when stability is needed most. Public safety infrastructure does not lend itself to stop-and-start policymaking.
The Lafayette Partnership believes in doing what is best for security, economic strength, and responsible governance. That is truly America First. Renewing FirstNet fits squarely within that framework, and is a practical investment in our safety.
As the country faces a rise in natural disasters and cyber attacks since its implementation in 2012, FirstNet has only proven itself all the more necessary. Supporting first responders should never be subject to partisan hesitation, but rather it should be a shared priority that rises above division.
The Senate now has the opportunity to act decisively: renew law and order for the sake of the American people by reauthorizing FirstNet. Let’s send this to President Donald J. Trump’s desk, and guarantee another generation of first responders are prepared for the challenges ahead.
“I commend the House of Representatives for passing legislation to reauthorize the First Responder Network Authority, or FirstNet, including critical reforms that will strengthen the network for the benefit of our nation’s first responders.”
— Assistant Secretary of Commerce Arielle Roth