In early March, Southern Marin Fire Protection District Fire Chief Chris Tubbs traveled to Washington, D.C. to participate in policy discussions with Congressional staff and elected officials regarding the future of FirstNet, the nationwide public safety broadband network created by Congress to strengthen emergency communications. During the visit, he took part in a panel presentation for Congressional staff, highlighting the operational importance of FirstNet for firefighters, law enforcement, EMS, and other emergency responders across the country.

FirstNet has significantly strengthened the ability of public safety agencies to communicate and share critical information during emergencies. As a Fire Chief responsible for protecting a coastal and wildland urban interface community, he emphasized that communications infrastructure is as essential to modern emergency response as fire engines, ambulances, or protective equipment. Ensuring the continued success of the network, including maintaining strong governance, protecting reinvestment into the system, and supporting its long term sustainability, is critical to the nation’s emergency response capabilities.

During his time in Washington, he also met with Congressman Jared Huffman and his Chief of Staff, as well as members of Congresswoman Doris Matsui’s staff, to discuss the importance of preserving and strengthening the FirstNet framework. These conversations provided an opportunity to share the perspective of local fire service leaders and highlight how a reliable nationwide public safety communications network supports coordinated response among local, state, and federal agencies during emergencies.  

Public safety communications infrastructure is foundational to protecting communities. As Congress considers the future of FirstNet, maintaining the network’s focus on public safety needs, strong governance, and continued reinvestment in coverage and technology will be critical.

Photo From left: Chris Moore, former San Jose Police Chief and White House Fellow who played a key role in the creation of FirstNet; Congressman Jared Huffman; Southern Marin Fire District Fire Chief Chris Tubbs; and Richard Carrizzo, retired fire chief, former Chairman of the FirstNet Authority Board, and former President of the International Association of Fire Chiefs.