U.S. Secretary of Commerce Gina Raimondo announced the appointment of 11 members to serve on the Board of the First Responder Network Authority (FirstNet Authority). This includes seven new members and four returning Board members who were reappointed to new three-year terms. Secretary Raimondo also appointed Keisha Lance Bottoms to serve as Chair of the Board.
Press Releases
The First Responder Network Authority is moving forward on its plans to expand FirstNet, the nationwide public safety broadband network, and enhance coverage where first responders need it, including in tribal, territorial, and rural areas. The FirstNet Authority Board approved plans to advance a ten-year initiative in which the FirstNet Authority will make ongoing investments of approximately $2 billion to expand FirstNet and improve coverage for public safety users.
The First Responder Network Authority presented the Patriot Award to five leaders in public safety, recognizing their leadership in using FirstNet to make communities safer.
Chief Christopher Lombard was awarded the Chief Harlin R. McEwen Public Safety Broadband Communications Award today for his remarkable leadership and extensive contributions to public safety broadband communications.
The FirstNet Authority Board approved a $684 million budget package to fund operations and network enhancements in Fiscal Year 2025 (FY25), including investments to expand coverage and evolve the Nationwide Public Safety Broadband Network.