WASHINGTON, D.C.—Chairman John D. (Jay) Rockefeller IV today said that President Obama’s jobs plan includes proposals to spark job growth and economic development by creating a new interoperable radio network for first responders—similar to legislation awaiting consideration by the full Senate.

“I am pleased to see that President Obama's jobs plan includes proposals to invest in the wireless economy and provide first responders with the communications tools they need to do their jobs safely and effectively,” Rockefeller said.  “Investment in this sector can create hundreds of thousands of jobs, help first responders and generate billions of dollars for deficit reduction.  It's a win-win-win proposal.  And I look forward to working with my colleagues to make this happen.”  

Background:

Chairman Rockefeller and Ranking Member Kay Bailey Hutchison have championed a bill, the Public Safety Spectrum and Wireless Innovation Act, to promote smart and efficient use of the nation’s radio airwaves, grow the wireless economy, and provide first responders and public safety officials with additional wireless resources to keep America safe.  In June 2011, the bill cleared the Commerce Committee overwhelmingly and now awaits consideration by the full Senate.  More information can be found here.

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