FirstNet Developments Examined in Upcoming Webcast

The development of FirstNet, the federal authority within NTIA tasked with building a nationwide wireless public safety broadband network, remains a key concern for industry stakeholders and first responders over a year after its creation under the Middle Class Tax Relief and Job Creation Act of 2012. With its first meetings already completed, FirstNet’s board has begun consulting with state, local, and tribal entities regarding the requirements and priorities for the design of the nationwide network. FirstNet’s board continues to address unresolved issues related to deployment strategy, procurement approach, and leveraging resources from state and local governments and carriers. In addition, FirstNet has faced recent controversy regarding allegations by one board member that, among other things, public safety authorities have not been fully consulted regarding network deployment, and regarding potential conflicts of interest. There have also been concerns raised regarding the ability of the FirstNet broadband network to support “mission critical” voice communications.

These issues and others with be examined in a live webcast carried on Broadband US TV from 11:30-12:30 pm (ET) on May 16, 2013, entitled “FirstNet: Understanding the $7 Billion Opportunity . . . and Challenges.” Co-hosts Marty Stern of K&L Gates and Jim Baller of the Baller Herbst Law Group will be joined by Jeff Cohen, Chief Counsel, Law and Policy, APCO International; Dan Draughn, Principal, Plexus Broadband, LLC; Mitch Herckis, Director of Government Relations, National Association of State Chief Information Officers; Kevin Krufky, Vice President, Public Affairs – Americas Region, Alcatel-Lucent; and Laura Waxman, Director of Public Safety, United States Conference of Mayors. The webcast will be carried live from the floor of the FOSE Government Technology IT Expo 2013 in Washington, D.C., and is the second in a series of conversations regarding FirstNet’s opportunities and challenges for state and local governments, carriers, infrastructure owners, and equipment manufacturers. The webcast will include an update on developments since BroadbandUS.TV’s first program on FirstNet and provide insights on what lies ahead for FirstNet.

You can access the webcast here (free registration required).