Eshoo, Matsui Praise Interoperability Agreement

September 12, 2013

TR DAILY

ESHOO, MATSUI PRAISE INTEROPERABILITY AGREEMENT

Paul Kirby

Reps. Anna G. Eshoo (D., Calif.), ranking member of the House communications and technology subcommittee, and Doris Matsui (D., Calif.) today praised yesterday's announcement of an agreement to enable interoperability in the lower 700 megahertz band (TRDaily, Sept. 10).

The "announcement of a voluntary industry solution to achieve interoperability in the lower 700 MHz band is a win for all consumers," Ms. Eshoo said. "I congratulate [acting] FCC Chairwoman [Mignon L.] Clyburn and the wireless industry for forging an agreement that promotes robust competition, innovation and the continued growth of the wireless marketplace. On the anniversary of the September 11th terrorist attacks, this agreement coupled with the important work underway to build a nationwide, interoperable public safety network will ensure our first responders are equipped with the 21st century tools needed to communicate seamlessly."

"I applaud the voluntary solution to achieve interoperability in the lower 700 MHz band. I believe it is an important step for competition and innovation in the wireless marketplace, as well as a win for consumers. I commend FCC Chairwoman Clyburn, the wireless industry, and other stakeholders for proactively finding a solution," Ms. Matsui said. "As we pay tribute to the anniversary of September 11th we recognize the inherent importance of building a robust interoperable public safety network. I believe this agreement will strengthen efforts underway to build a nationwide, interoperable public safety network to ensure our first responders are equipped with the 21st century tools needed to communicate effectively during emergency situations."