First Responder Communications
The tragic events of September 11th and Hurricane Katrina revealed the need for improved communications capability for local, State, tribal, and Federal first responders during an emergency. In response to these challenges, the Committee on Homeland Security supported the establishment of the Department’s Office of Emergency Communications. Additionally, in February 2012, with the vocal support of the Committee on Homeland Security, Congress passed and the President signed legislation to allocate broadband spectrum, specifically the D Block, to public safety. The Committee on Homeland Security continues to support efforts to ensure first responders have the ability to communicate.