NEWS Federal Communications Commission 445 12th Street, S.W. Washington, D. C. 20554 This is an unofficial announcement of Commission action. Release of the full text of a Commission order constitutes official action. See MCI v. FCC. 515 F 2d 385 (D.C. Circ 1974). News Media Information 202 / 418-0500 Fax-On-Demand 202 / 418-2830 TTY 202/418-2555 Internet: http://www.fcc.gov ftp.fcc.gov FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: NEWS MEDIA CONTACT: October 28, 2013 Rochelle Cohen 202-418-1162 rochelle.cohen@fcc.gov FCC ADOPTS TECHNICAL RULES FOR USE OF THE PUBLIC SAFETY SPECTRUM LICENSED TO FIRSTNET Rules Will Enable Vendors to Develop Equipment for the Public Safety Broadband Network Washington, D.C. – The Federal Communications Commission today adopted technical service rules to govern the spectrum that will be used for deployment of a nationwide public safety wireless broadband network by the First Responder Network Authority (FirstNet). The rules, which include power limits and other technical parameters for operating in this spectrum band, will provide a foundation for FirstNet’s operations, help avoid harmful interference to spectrum users in adjacent bands, and expedite the availability of equipment for use on the public safety network, thereby fostering competition and innovation in the marketplace. The Middle Class Tax Relief and Job Creation Act of 2012 established the framework for deploying a nationwide wireless public safety broadband network. The Act directed the Commission to grant a license to FirstNet for the combined use of two spectrum blocks for the network – one block that was previously designated for public safety use (763-768/793-798 MHz) and a second, spectrally adjacent block (758- 763/788-793 MHz). Today’s action consolidates the technical requirements governing both spectrum blocks into a uniform set of rules, which will provide vendors with specifications they need to develop equipment for use on this spectrum. It also directs the Commission’s Office of Engineering and Technology to begin accepting and processing applications for equipment certification in this band, consistent with the newly consolidated rules. Because of the urgent need to certify equipment in this spectrum band and promote more effective public safety operations, the rules will become effective immediately upon publication in the Federal Register. Action by the Commission October 28, 2013, by Second Report and Order (FCC 13-137). Acting Chairwoman Clyburn, Commissioners Rosenworcel and Pai with Acting Chairwoman Clyburn, Commissioners Rosenworcel and Pai issuing statements. For further information, contact Brian Hurley at 202-418-2220. – FCC – For more news and information about the FCC please visit: www.fcc.gov