Emergency response tools, from firefighter and police calls to hurricane alerts, are an essential service provided by the government. As hurricane season storms and action against crime make headlines, these critical networks are front and center in the fast-moving, sometimes life-or-death situations facing Americans.
Emergency communication technology should be a priority for Congress. Reauthorization of the national telecommunications program FirstNet, with greater spectrum access, would align with public safety, private-public partnerships and a government that puts the people first.
FirstNet was created after the September 11, 2001, terrorist attacks due to the communications failures that occurred. After a competitive proposal process, AT&T won the contract to build and run the FirstNet spectrum network exclusively for around-the-clock first-responder communications. As the service adapts to emerging technology and market demands, it faces congressional reauthorization and review.
Used for public service announcements about natural disasters, medical emergency dispatchers and policing, FirstNet is a prime example of what it looks like when government supersedes partisan divides and actually works. Designed in a private-public partnership model, FirstNet is financially self-sufficient and plays a vital role in our healthcare system and law enforcement. It saves lives.
Often in a time of crisis, commercial wireless networks become congested. Slow, unstable connection makes it difficult for first responders to do their jobs. That’s where FirstNet comes in, with its special broadband line offering dedicated high-quality spectrum for these unique users. It is the only broadband network specifically dedicated to public safety, and it is considered the best communications service for police, firefighters and ambulance staffers.
Demand for more emergency services, from traditional radio announcements to SMS alerts, is increasing the load on FirstNet systems. Pair that with new, resource-intensive technologies like artificial intelligence, and this working system may become overwhelmed. In addition to reauthorization of the program, lawmakers might consider adding more spectrum to this program to enhance its capabilities and ensure functionality.
This is an opportunity for Congress to show that the government can still work for the people. Lawmakers should consider ways to help the program adapt to the wireless, internet-centric world and prepare for the changes of the future by making it more adaptable.
AT&T has committed to serious investments in the program’s 5G technology and enhanced coverage — particularly for wireless access to rural communities. The company has built cell sites for the public safety system nationwide to make FirstNet able to serve the people.
The coastal winds are picking up and the brave men and women who serve in the police force or work in hospitals must be ready for danger. Strengthening this essential program will help them in the line of duty. Sometimes the real test of government isn’t in sweeping reforms or grandstanding debates, but in whether the 9-1-1 lines stay open when the call comes through.
