Bill would extend FirstNet emergency network authority through 2037
Passed one chamberH.R. 7386Latest action
Sponsor: Neal P. Dunn · Representative · FL
AIDecoded by AI · checked against the recordRead the official text
Official title: First Responder Network Authority Reauthorization Act of 2026
119th Congress
Topics: Government & democracy
Introduced:
Read the official bill on Congress.govIn plain words
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HR 7386 extends FirstNet's authorization through 2037 and gives NTIA more direct oversight of its operations.
40-second read · 4 questions answered below
What does this do?
The bill extends FirstNet's authorization to operate through September 30, 2037, instead of letting it expire after 15 years. It gives NTIA approval power over FirstNet's major actions, restructures its governing board, adds an Associate Administrator role, and expands what technologies count as part of the public safety network. It also adds new transparency requirements, including faster outage reporting and congressional access to contracts.
Who does it affect?
This affects FirstNet, NTIA, the private contractor that builds and runs the network, and emergency responders like police, firefighters, and paramedics who use it.
Why does it matter?
The changes increase federal oversight and reporting requirements while extending how long the network can legally operate, aiming for more reliable and accountable emergency communications.
AI-drafted summary. Check it against the official text before you act on it.
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Where does it stand?
- IntroducedFeb 5, 2026
- House committee
- House vote
- SenateYou are here · Apr 21, 2026
- The president's desk
Right now: it passed the House, and the official record shows nothing new since. If the Senate changes it, it goes back to the House before reaching the president.
Latest action: — Received in the Senate and Read twice and referred to the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation.