STATEMENT OF
COMMISSIONER JESSICA ROSENWORCEL
Re: Implementing Public Safety Broadband Provisions of the Middle Class Tax Relief and Job 
Creation Act of 2012, PS Docket No. 12-94; Implementing a Nationwide, Broadband, 
Interoperable Public Safety Network in the 700 MHz Band, PS Docket No. 06-229; Service Rules 
for the 698–746, 747–762, and 777–792 MHz Bands, WT Docket No. 06-150.
In the Middle Class Tax Relief and Job Creation Act, Congress created the First Responder 
Network Authority, known as FirstNet.  Congress charged FirstNet with the responsibility to deploy and 
operate a nationwide, wireless, broadband public safety network—to help our police, firefighters, and 
other first responders communicate and keep us safe.  In the law, Congress was clear about the structure 
and responsibilities of FirstNet.  To this end, it established FirstNet as an independent authority within the 
National Telecommunications and Information Administration at the Department of Commerce.  The 
Commission was directed to provide technical assistance to help FirstNet realize its statutory mission.  
Consistent with this direction from Congress, I believe this agency should stand ready to assist FirstNet 
whenever it calls upon us.  At the same time, the Commission must avoid putting unnecessary constraints 
on FirstNet as it works to deliver on its essential promise to our nation’s first responders.