FCC Makes Final Policy Call on FirstNet Opt-Out Rules
The FCC addressed questions it raised in June when it approved rules for states to opt out of FirstNet (see 1706220019). Friday's order largely adopts what FirstNet requested (see 1707190017) and was a win for the nascent network, public safety…
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officials said. The FCC said it would adopt recommendations from FirstNet on the use of access point names (APNs). These “requirements are consistent with industry standards for LTE deployment, resulting in an understandable and achievable benchmark,” the order said. “No party disputes FirstNet’s arguments or proposes a viable alternative standard … in response to FirstNet’s proposal.” Chairman Ajit Pai said the FCC made the right moves. “As communities devastated by Hurricanes Harvey and Irma begin the hard work of rebuilding, our work at the Commission to promote public safety continues,” Pai said. “We take another step towards the creation of a nationwide interoperable public safety broadband network.” Commissioner Jessica Rosenworcel noted the order was her first recorded vote as a returning commissioner.