Emergency Network Extended in Bill Advanced by House Panel

House lawmakers advanced bipartisan legislation that would ensure FirstNet, the nation’s wireless broadband network for first responders and public safety officials, continues operations through 2037.

The House Energy and Commerce Committee’s panel on communications and technology approved the draft bill Tuesday during a markup, sending the measure to the full committee for consideration. Lawmakers voted by voice vote in favor of extending the program, while noting the bill language isn’t final and open to changes as stakeholders continue discussions.

The bill makes “reforms to improve transparency, accountability, and leadership,” full committee Chair Brett Guthrie (R-Ky.) said. “But also ensures ...