US Secretary of Commerce Gina Raimondo appointed eleven public safety, technology, and business leaders, including Anne Arundel County Fire Chief Trisha L. Wolford, to the First Responder Network Authority (FirstNet Authority) Board.
With MACo’s fervent advocacy for a statewide Next Generation 9-1-1 (NG911) system, Chief Wolford’s appointment comes at a pivotal time. It reinforces the importance of advancing public safety technology and keeping Maryland’s residents protected.
The FirstNet Authority Board, which plays a critical role in guiding the development and operation of a nationwide public safety broadband network, has three permanent members: the US Attorney General, the Secretary of Homeland Security, and the Director of the Office of Management and Budget.
The Department of Commerce appoints 12 additional members from various sectors. Together, the Board ensures that FirstNet and its commercial partner, AT&T, provide the essential tools first responders need to protect and serve local communities effectively.
