RCA Supports Rep. Harman’s Next Generation Public Safety Device Act

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE                                                                      Contact: Lucy Tutwiler

July 28, 2010                                                                                                              (202) 449-9866

RCA Supports Rep. Harman’s Next Generation Public Safety Device Act

Washington, DC – Today, RCA (Rural Cellular Association) supported Congresswoman Harman’s bill, “The Next Generation Public Safety Device Act of 2010,” which calls on the National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) to hold a developmental contest for devices that can support both voice and data communications in the 700 MHz spectrum.  Rep. Harman’s bill, also supported by The Association of Public-Safety Communications Officials (APCO) and National Emergency Number Association (NENA), will help bring public safety one step closer to the robust, nationwide mobile broadband network that it so desperately needs.

In a statement, RCA President & CEO Steven K. Berry said, “I commend Congresswoman Harman’s bill, as it will ensure more robust handset coverage not only for public safety but for all consumers.  If the FCC wants to achieve its goal of getting broadband to100 million American homes, then it should mandate interoperability, and the private sector will respond with new innovative devices.”

Berry continued, “Investing in a developmental contest will encourage vendors to enter, thus promoting a healthy, competitive marketplace.  RCA continues to urge Congress and the FCC to mandate interoperability across all paired bands of 700 MHz spectrum, and I look forward to working with Rep. Harman’s office and the Committee as we move forward in achieving this important initiative.”

About RCA

RCA is the nation's leading association for wireless providers serving rural areas of the United States. The licensed service area of RCA's nearly 90 members covers more than 80 percent of the nation.

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