Virginia and Wyoming had until Mid-December to opt in or out, but saw the benefits of announcing early and getting a head start for preparing for the new emergency communications network.
Virginia was America’s first colony, and Virginia continued that leading tradition by becoming the first state to sign on to the national framework for FirstNet’s interoperable emergency communications network yesterday.
“FirstNet will be able to put the technology citizens use every day — like smartphones and apps — into the hands of Virginia’s first responders, modernizing how they help save lives and protect residents while creating a single, interoperable system across the Commonwealth and across the country,” FirstNet CEO Mike Poth said in a press release.
“I am proud that Virginia is the first state in the nation to opt in to this program that will help our first responders communicate during times of emergency,” Virginia Governor Terry McAuliffe said in a statement.
Virginia had until mid-December to make its decision.
FirstNet and AT&T will build, operate and maintain the secure wireless broadband communications network for the public safety community and create an entire system of modernized devices, apps and tools for first responders.
The state of Wyoming also approved a plan yesterday to opt in to FirstNet.
“The state of Wyoming has participated in FirstNet consultation and outreach activities throughout the planning of the network and reviewed the details of the FirstNet state plan,” Governor Matthew Mead said.
“FirstNet will be an asset for emergency personnel across Wyoming. This is a tool that allows for better communication and faster response.”
