House Lawmakers Appear Supportive of Draft FirstNet Reauthorization Bill
There was bipartisan support in both chambers for more NTIA oversight.
WASHINGTON, Feb. 5, 2026 – House lawmakers from both parties appeared supportive Wednesday of a draft bill to reauthorize the First Responder Network Authority.
The draft, led by Reps. Neal Dunn, F-Fla., and Jennifer McClellan, D-Va., would reauthorize the FirstNet Authority through September 2037 and put the agency under more direct control from the National Telecommunications and Information Administration.
The FirstNet Authority oversees FirstNet, the nationwide first responder network owned and operated by AT&T under a contract with the Commerce Department. FirstNet Authority will sunset in February 2027 unless Congress reauthorizes it.
Member discussion