Riley Votes to Extend Broadband Network for First Responders

WASHINGTON, D.C. - This week, Rep. Josh Riley (NY-19) voted to pass the First Responder Network Authority Reauthorization Act (H.R.7386). This bipartisan legislation extends the authority of FirstNet through 2027, protecting the nationwide broadband network that first responders and public safety officials rely on to coordinate life-saving response when every second counts.

"During an emergency, our first responders shouldn't have to worry about whether their radios, phones, and data networks will work. They should know they will," said Riley.

In addition to giving FirstNet the authority to continue operating through 2037, the First Responder Network Authority Act would also improve oversight over the program and expand the presence of public safety professionals on the FirstNet Board.

Rep. Riley is committed to supporting first responders and protecting the safety of Upstate communities. Since taking office in 2024, he has:

• Delivered $1,015,000 in federal funding to replace a deteriorating firehouse in Guilford.
• Delivered $1,015,000 to build a firehouse in West Athens.
• Delivered $1,000,000 to help Monticello build a public safety hub in the village hall.
• Co-sponsored the Honoring Our Fallen Heroes Act (H.R.1269) to expand support for the families of firefighters and other first responders who pass away or become permanently disabled from service-related cancers.
• Co-sponsored legislation (H.R.621) to protect first responders from secondary exposure to fentanyl.
• Co-sponsored the Remembering Our Local Heroes Act (H.R.4268) to provide funding for memorials honoring veterans, law enforcement officers, and firefighters.
• Co-sponsored the HEROES Act (H.R.3146) to give student loan relief to volunteer first responders
• Joined the bipartisan Congressional Fire Services Caucus.

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