The Energy and Commerce Committee held a full committee markup on Mar. 25 to consider the reauthorization of the First Responder Network Authority, known as FirstNet. Congressman John Joyce, M.D., spoke in support of H.R. 7386, The First Responder Network Authority Reauthorization Act, which would extend the program through September 2037.
The legislation aims to increase transparency and accountability within FirstNet while strengthening its services for first responders across the United States. The bill passed unanimously in committee and will next be considered by the full House of Representatives.
Joyce said that “FirstNet is a critical component of public safety communications in the district that I represent in Pennsylvania. Particularly across rural areas, the FirstNet network provides first responders the ability to respond to emergency situations with the most effective communications system possible. In an emergency, there is no time to waste. First responders across the country know the grave consequences that can happen when a 911 call drops or communications systems fail in the seconds that matter most.”
He described how Shade Gap Volunteer Fire Company in Huntingdon County benefited from improved coverage after a new tower was installed in 2022: “Before the FirstNet system tower was installed in 2022, firefighters faced 911 dispatch calls that were difficult to hear and phone calls that would drop. In some cases, people in emergency situations would even have to drive to nearby towns to make a call to 911,” Joyce said. He continued by quoting Fire Company President Tanner Locke: “With FirstNet coverage in their area, firefighters have not had one single dropped 911 call. That is correct – not one single dropped 911 call.” Joyce added, “The FirstNet upgrade has allowed first responders to respond to emergencies when time is of the essence.”
John Joyce has served as U.S. Representative for Pennsylvania’s 13th District since replacing Bill Shuster in 2019 according to his biography. He was born in Altoona, Pennsylvania and currently lives in Hollidaysburg as reported by official records. Joyce graduated from Pennsylvania State University at University Park with a Bachelor of Science degree according to Ballotpedia.
Supporters say reauthorizing FirstNet will help ensure reliable communication tools are available for emergency personnel nationwide.
