C&T Hearing: Evaluating FirstNet: Performance, Accountability, and Reauthorization

The House Committee on Energy and Commerce held a hearing to evaluate the performance, accountability, and reauthorization of FirstNet, the nationwide public safety broadband network established after the 9/11 attacks. The discussion focused on FirstNet's successes in providing reliable, interoperable communications for first responders across the U.S., including during natural disasters and large-scale emergencies. Witnesses highlighted challenges such as ambiguous leadership roles, contract oversight issues, and the need for improved transparency and accountability. The proposed legislation aims to reauthorize FirstNet through 2037, clarify governance by placing FirstNet under the National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA), enhance oversight, and ensure the network evolves with advancing technology. Emphasis was placed on expanding coverage, especially in rural and underserved areas, strengthening cybersecurity, and maintaining priority access for first responders. Stakeholders underscored the importance of continued investment, public safety-driven decision-making, and collaboration between the FirstNet Authority, NTIA, and AT&T, the network operator.