H.R. 7386: First Responder Network Authority Reauthorization Act of 2026

This bill, titled the First Responder Network Authority Reauthorization Act of 2026, aims to extend the authorization for the First Responder Network Authority (FirstNet) until September 30, 2037. FirstNet is responsible for developing and maintaining a nationwide public safety broadband network that allows emergency responders to communicate effectively during incidents. Below are the key components of the bill:

Reauthorization of FirstNet

The bill extends the FirstNet's authorization, previously set to expire 15 years after its enactment, to a new termination date of September 30, 2037. It also requires that a report on the organization's performance and recommendations for future preparations regarding any contractual expiration be submitted to Congress seven years after the enactment of this legislation.

Authority of the NTIA

The National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) will have greater oversight over FirstNet's actions, meaning that many decisions made by FirstNet will need prior approval from NTIA. However, there are specific instances where FirstNet can act without prior consent, such as in emergency deployments or for strategic planning activities.

Board Composition

The bill mandates the Board of the First Responder Network Authority to include at least five public safety professionals from state, local, or tribal organizations, ensuring that they are involved in the governance of the network.

Establishment of the Associate Administrator

FirstNet will appoint an Associate Administrator to manage its operations and act as a liaison with the NTIA. This position will be filled by a career appointee and will not require new appointments if the current Executive Director transitions to this role.

Components of the Nationwide Public Safety Broadband Network

The bill emphasizes that the broadband network will include advanced technologies and services to ensure reliable, secure, and prioritized communication for public safety agencies.

Fee Flexibility

FirstNet will have the ability to establish flexible fee schedules, which may vary by fiscal year or other time periods as determined necessary by the authority.

Reporting Requirements

FirstNet will be required to submit regular reports to Congress detailing various aspects of its network operations, including evaluations of contractor performance, cyber incidents, and service outages. Annual briefings will also be provided to Congress on FirstNet’s activities and progress.

Business Continuity and Disaster Recovery

The bill requires FirstNet to create and submit a business continuity and disaster recovery plan, ensuring that the network can be quickly restored after emergencies. This plan must be reviewed and approved by the NTIA every five years.

Outage Notifications

In case of any unscheduled service outages, the FirstNet contractor must notify the authority and relevant users of the network within 30 minutes after the outage is confirmed, enhancing communication during such incidents.

Contract Submissions

Within seven days of a request from congressional committee leaders, the Assistant Secretary must submit any contracts related to FirstNet operations and maintenance to Congress, ensuring transparency regarding contractual agreements.

Definitions Update

The bill updates and clarifies definitions related to the FirstNet contractor responsible for building and managing the public safety broadband network.

Relevant Companies

• CSCO - Cisco Systems, Inc.: Cisco could be impacted as it provides networking solutions that may be utilized within the FirstNet infrastructure.
• ADBE - Adobe Inc.: Adobe might be indirectly affected through their software solutions that could be used for data management and communication in public safety operations.
• VMW - VMware, Inc.: VMware's cloud and virtualization technologies might see engagement regarding online infrastructure for FirstNet.