Rockefeller public safety bill includes funding component

Sen. Jay Rockefeller’s (D-W.V.) bill to try to get first responders interoperable communications equipment is the latest in a long line of attempts to get first responders adequate communications systems, but the crux of the legislation will depend on funding.
Rockefeller introduced the Public Safety Spectrum and Wireless Innovation Act on Thursday. The bill could be reconciled with House Bill 5081, which also seeks to get public-safety spectrum and funding. The bill would authorize the Federal Communications Commission to hold incentive auctions, allowing broadcasters financial incentive to return unused spectrum, similar to the FCC’s plans, which were part of the National Broadband Plan presented to Congress earlier this year. The FCC recommended Congress put aside $12 billion to $16 billion over 10 years to help fund the network. The bill also proposes another 10 megahertz of spectrum to help create a nationwide wireless broadband network for public safety, and allows first responders to partner with commercial carriers to help build out the network.