The purpose of FirstNet is to establish, operate, and maintain an interoperable public safety broadband network.

To fulfill these objectives, Congress allotted $7 billion and 20 MHz of radio spectrum to build the network.

[1] FirstNet is an independent authority within the U.S. Department of Commerce's National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA).

The remaining 12 members are selected by the United States Secretary of Commerce for their public safety, technical, network, and/or financial expertise.

According to the MCTRJCA, FirstNet is responsible for consulting with states, local communities, and tribal governments to develop the requirements for its RAN deployment plan.

The 9/11 attacks "highlighted the inability for deployed public safety networks to handle a true crisis situation.

[9] The Federal Communications Commission and the National Telecommunications and Information Administration are also involved in coordinating the broadband system.