WASHINGTON-A group that advocates for first-responder communications today sent letters to every member of Congress urging them to pass legislation that would require broadcasters to vacate TV channels that block police, firefighters, and medics from using 700 MHz frequencies.
The Association of Public-Safety Communications Officials International’s letter reiterated its support of the HERO Act, which mandates the clearing of broadcasters off TV channels 63, 64, 68 and 69 by Jan. 1, 2007, and was introduced by Reps. Jane Harman (D-Calif.) and Curt Weldon (R-Pa.) last year.
“APCO International stands ready to help the administration and Congress to ensure our first responders have what they need to respond to terrorist threats,” APCO International President Greg Ballentine stated in the letter. “Our members are committed to making sure our homeland’s security is priority No. 1.”
APCO said the congressional letter identified the most critical parts of interoperable communications as clear and defined regional planning, adequate funding and training. The group urged that funding for these efforts be included in any legislation on this matter.
