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 & PSSA Congratulate  Olivia Trusty on Her Confirmation as a New Commissioner to the Federal Communications Commission (FCC)

PSBTA & PSSA Congratulate  Olivia Trusty on Her Confirmation as a New Commissioner to the Federal Communications Commission (FCC)

On behalf of the Public Safety Broadband Technology Association (PSBTA) and the Public Safety Spectrum Alliance (PSSA), we would like to congratulate Olivia Trusty on her confirmation as a new Commissioner to the Federal Communications Commission (FCC). Commissioner Trusty’s extensive background in communications policy and knowledge of communications priorities in the public safety community will help shape the future of the FCC.

PSBTA 2025 Vision Summit: Why You Need to Be There!

PSBTA 2025 Vision Summit: Why You Need to Be There!

The 2025 Vision Summit, the premier event for FirstNet end users, is quickly approaching. This is an opportunity to learn more about Internet of Things (IoT), Augmented Reality (AR), Artificial Intelligence, drones, NG9-1-1, and much more. Learn more about the single dedicated network for public safety – FirstNet!

The future of FirstNet comes alive. Be a part of this innovative and educational experience. Join us Sept 8-11, 2025, in beautiful Indianapolis.

Nationwide coverage for first responders is at risk unless Congress gets their act together

Nationwide coverage for first responders is at risk unless Congress gets their act together

The dedicated public safety broadband network of the United States, known as FirstNet, and built by AT&T under federal contract after the 9/11 attacks is pending reauthorization by Congress according to The Public Safety Broadband Technology Association (PSBTA) which is calling upon legislators to do so quickly or risk losing a network that first-responders rely upon. The current authorization is set to expire in 2027.

The Future of Emergency Response Tech– Balancing Innovation, Integration, and Usability

The Future of Emergency Response Tech– Balancing Innovation, Integration, and Usability

Among the most anticipated sessions every year at the FirstNet Users Vision Summit are the Think Tanks, where leaders from public safety and the industry come together to brainstorm ways to creatively address challenges and promote advancement. Innovation in public safety communications is in high demand, but when lives are at risk, it also requires absolute trust and reliability in the systems that carry those precious details. At the 2024 Vision Summit held in Las Vegas, NV, the discussion centered around balancing innovation, integration, and usability for all stakeholders. Some key themes that emerged from the conversations were data sharing, AI integration, secure access, and resilience. 

The FirstNet Authority Announces Leadership Changes

The FirstNet Authority Announces Leadership Changes

On behalf of the Public Safety Spectrum Alliance, (PSSA) we thank retiring CEO Joe Wassel for his leadership during a significant phase in FirstNet’s evolution and expansion. Under his guidance, FirstNet completed its initial network buildout, advanced its transition to 5G, and significantly expanded nationwide coverage. Joe laid a strong foundation for FirstNet’s next phase, charting a course for continued innovation and growth.

EVENTS

PODCASTS

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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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