Hawaii has opted into the First Responder Network Authority (FirstNet), joining 14 other states and the U.S. Virgin Islands in making that decision, FirstNet and its wireless network partner, AT&T, Inc., announced today. “The FirstNet network will transform the way fire, police, EMS, emergency management and other public safety personnel communicate and share information, enabling them to better serve their communities during emergencies and day to day operations,” Gov. David Ige (D.) said. “I believe this is long overdue,” said Maj. Gen. Arthur (Joe) Logan, the state adjutant general, state homeland security adviser, and single point of contact (SPOC) for Hawaii’s FirstNet initiative. “The 9-11 Commission required that first responders should have interoperable communications. That’s what FirstNet will provide to Hawaii.”

“Gov. Ige’s decision to join FirstNet will give emergency responders access to reliable, modern communications solutions they’ve never had before,” said FirstNet CEO Mike Poth. “We are honored to deliver a high-speed network that will prioritize first responders and connect them across the Aloha State.” —Lynn Stanton, lynn.stanton@wolterskluwer.com

Courtesy TRDaily