First Responder Network Authority’s Autonomy:

The True Success of FirstNet

Whitepaper

The First Responder Network Authority (FirstNet Authority) was created by Congress in 2012 as an independent authority to build, operate, and sustain the Nationwide Public Safety Broadband Network (NPSBN). An autonomous Board—accountable to Congress and the public safety community—was central to FirstNet’s early success, including the nationwide deployment of Band 14 spectrum and delivery of the network on time and on budget. Reauthorization presents a critical opportunity for Congress to enhance clarity, accountability, and momentum.

FirstNet - Network Built For First Responders When It Matters Most

When the world holds its breath, first responders run in. FirstNet is the public safety broadband network built for firefighters, EMS, law enforcement, healthcare, and emergency management, delivering public safety communications when every second counts. For those who run in, for those who stand watch, it’s on. FirstNet.

Congress Should Reauthorize the FirstNet Authority Now.

Support the reauthorization of the FirstNet Authority to preserve public safety’s network

FirstNet Reauthorization

Bill Advancement – March 25, 2026

“It was incredibly rewarding to see the House Energy & Commerce Committee unite in bipartisan support for the amended version of the Bill today. Their dedication to public safety was evident throughout the process, and I am pleased that the measure is moving forward responsibly before the sunset date. PSBTA stands strong, along with its members, to continue working for reauthorization.”

Richard Carrizzo, President,
Public Safety Broadband Technology Association

Catching Wildfire

Podcast Series

Emerging Technologies and Innovations in Wildfire

Join podcast hosts Chief Jeff Johnson (Ret.) and Chief Kim Zagaris as they are joined by experts in the field of preventing and fighting wildfires.

Become a Member

Public Safety Broadband Technology Association provides educational events, committees, research, advocacy and other activities in support of FirstNet users.

NEWS & PRESS RELEASES

PSBTA releases survey on First Responder Support for FirstNet Reauthorization

PSBTA releases survey on First Responder Support for FirstNet Reauthorization

Las Vegas, NV (November 10, 2025) – A new bipartisan national survey commissioned by the Public Safety Broadband Technology Association finds near-unanimous support among first responders for reauthorizing the First Responder Network Authority (FirstNet Authority) – the agency overseeing America’s dedicated public safety broadband network.

PSBTA and PSSA Congratulate Arielle Roth Confirmation as the Administrator of the National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA)

PSBTA and PSSA Congratulate Arielle Roth Confirmation as the Administrator of the National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA)

On behalf of the Public Safety Broadband Technology Association (PSBTA), Public Safety Spectrum Alliance (PSSA), our members, and industry partners, we would like to to congratulate you on being confirmed by the United States Senate to serve as the Administrator of the National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) within the U.S. Department of Commerce.

Public Safety Professionals Advocate for FirstNet Reauthorization in 2027

Public Safety Professionals Advocate for FirstNet Reauthorization in 2027

Born from the communications issues that were experienced by public safety teams during the 9/11 attacks, FirstNet is the single dedicated network for America’s first responders and the extended public safety community. The highly secure FirstNet network delivers always-on priority and preemption, as well as innovative tools and deployable network assets, to keep public safety connected – no matter the situation. The network will need to be reauthorized prior to its statutory sunset deadline in February 2027. 

PSBTA and PSSA Congratulate Arielle Roth on Her Confirmation as Assistant Secretary of Commerce for Communications and Information, and Administrator of the NTIA

PSBTA and PSSA Congratulate Arielle Roth on Her Confirmation as Assistant Secretary of Commerce for Communications and Information, and Administrator of the NTIA

On behalf of the Public Safety Broadband Technology Association (PSBTA) and the Public Safety Spectrum Alliance (PSSA), we would like to congratulate Arielle Roth on her confirmation as assistant secretary of Commerce for communications and information, and administrator of the National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA).

FirstNet, built with AT&T Provides Emergency Communications After Central Texas Flood

FirstNet, built with AT&T Provides Emergency Communications After Central Texas Flood

The deadly, devastating flash flood that ravaged Central Texas during the July 4th holiday weekend is almost beyond comprehension in its power and cruelty. By Monday, July 7, 2025, the death toll had exceeded 100 victims with almost twice as many still missing.  Meanwhile, more storms and potential flooding were in the weather forecast, potentially making a terrible situation even worse.

EVENTS

PODCASTS

Podcast: Catching Wildfire Special Edition

Podcast: Catching Wildfire Special Edition

During the 2025 Vision Summit, the Catching Wildfire podcast hosted the leaders representing the FirstNet public/private partnership. Chief Kim Zagaris had the opportunity to sit down with Scott Agnew, President of FirstNet, Built with AT&T, and Jeff Bratcher, Deputy Executive Director, Office of Operations and Chief Technology Officer with the First Responder Network Authority (FirstNet Authority).

This special edition podcast focuses on the origins of the FirstNet technical vision, the interactions and expectations between FirstNet, Built with AT&T and the FirstNet Authority to manage responses to wildfires, how the sustainable FirstNet reinvestment model ensures service and expansion of the network, and future forward actions benefitting public safety.

Podcast: FirstNet and the 4.9 GHz Spectrum.

Podcast: FirstNet and the 4.9 GHz Spectrum.

This episode dives into the critical evolution of public safety communications, focusing on the recent FCC decision to establish a nationwide Band Manager framework for the 4.9 GHz spectrum, and discuss the evolution and deployment of the FirstNet System. Host Chris Tubbs interviews Chief Jeff Johnson, a leader in public safety technology and the development of FirstNet. Together, they explore the history, governance, and transformative potential of FirstNet and the 4.9 GHz spectrum in enhancing public safety operations with emerging technologies like AI, 5G, and augmented reality. The discussion emphasizes the importance of protecting and optimizing public safety spectrum, the lessons learned from past advocacy efforts, and a call to action for public safety leaders to remain engaged in ensuring the spectrum’s effective use and governance.

Podcast: The Future is Now!

Podcast: The Future is Now!

This episode dives into the critical evolution of public safety communications, focusing on the recent FCC decision to establish a nationwide Band Manager framework for the 4.9 GHz spectrum, and discuss the evolution and deployment of the FirstNet System. Host Chris Tubbs interviews Chief Jeff Johnson, a leader in public safety technology and the development of FirstNet. Together, they explore the history, governance, and transformative potential of FirstNet and the 4.9 GHz spectrum in enhancing public safety operations with emerging technologies like AI, 5G, and augmented reality. The discussion emphasizes the importance of protecting and optimizing public safety spectrum, the lessons learned from past advocacy efforts, and a call to action for public safety leaders to remain engaged in ensuring the spectrum’s effective use and governance.

PSBTA Connect: FirstNet Forums, Podcasts & Webinars

Podcasts & Webinars for First Responders

Technical Solution Podcasts & Webinar Series brings the most current network and technology information to you, our Nation’s first responder as part of our ongoing effort to ensure you are included in the development and evolution of FirstNet – the first and only nationwide public safety communications ecosystem with a dedicated, physically separate network, whose core purpose is to support the first responders. The PSBTA is working in collaboration with FirstNet Built with AT&T to bring the public safety community the latest information on public safety communications and FirstNet in order to provide the opportunity for professionals to collaborate and exchange ideas. Topics discussed at the forums include:

    • Cutting edge technology designed to make your job easier and safer;
    • Firsthand insights on FirstNet at work in the both emergency and non- emergency settings, and;
    • Facilitated Podcasts & Webinar sessions designed to foster a robust discussion on the end-user’s needs and vision for FirstNet.

Please join us and be a part of the growth and evolution of public safety communications through FirstNet, your public safety network.

Sponsored By;

*Interested in becoming a sponsor? Click Here

FirstNet Community Collaboration Forums

The PSBTA FirstNetâ„¢ Community Collaboration Forums are a series of regionalized presentations with panelists from the FirstNet Authority, both national and local team members with FirstNet built with AT&T, ecosystem developers, a federal grants specialist, and a townhall with our board members.

The forums are custom-built to connect you with the leaders in the FirstNet ecosystem. Find the community collaboration forum serving your area and register today to reserve your spot!

Sponsored By;

Why Join the Public Safety Broadband Technology Association?

By participating in the Public Safety Broadband Technology Association (PSBTA), you will have the opportunity to learn, contribute, engage and shape the future of public safety technology. FirstNet is changing the world and changing it in ways never imagined. FirstNet will save lives, protect first responders, create efficiencies within public safety, and save local governments precious tax dollars. PSBTA membership is one way to be part of the evolution and revolutionary changes now and as we innovate our way forward into the future.

Learn, Contribute, Engage, & Shape the Future of Public Safety Technology

BECOME A MEMBER

SUBSCRIBE

Learn, Contribute, Engage, & Shape the Future of Public Safety Technology

BECOME A MEMBER

SUBSCRIBE

Company

PUBLIC SAFETY BROADBAND TECHNOLOGY ASSOCIATION

Operated by
Public Safety 360, LLC

Address

3540 W Sahara Ave. #316
Las Vegas, NV 89102

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