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HARMAN INTRODUCES BILL TO BOLSTER EMERGENCY COMMUNICATIONSLawmaker says “Interoperable communications save lives.” |
September 23, 2009 |
| Washington, D.C. – Congresswoman Jane Harman (D-CA) has introduced legislation (H.R. 3633) to extend the Public Safety Interoperable Communications (PSIC) grant program—the program which provides funding to states to supply public safety personnel with interoperable communications equipment and training. The extension of the grant program is necessary to complete planned projects that will improve the response of emergency personnel. “Interoperable communications save lives,” said Harman. “Our first responders are also our first preventers; they should absolutely have all the tools they need to take effective action against any and all hazards. States should be given the time and funding that they need to ensure this happens.” The importance of effective communications was tragically apparent on 9/11, when the lack of an interoperable network prevented the NYPD from warning firefighters of the need to evacuate the Twin Towers. Interoperability remains a critical issue in California, where first responders often use different and incompatible communications equipment. “The PSIC program should be continued,” added Harman. “It is a building block in the effort to properly equip the people on the front lines who keep our communities safe. However, this in no way relieves Congress of the obligation to complete the build-out of the 700 megahertz spectrum so that we develop true national interoperability. I am enormously disappointed that, despite universal agreement on the goal, real progress has been so slow.” Congresswoman Harman’s full record statement can be read here: http://www.house.gov/harman/pdf/PSIC.pdf ### |
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