King Bill Acknowledges Vital Role of Public Utilities in Emergency Response Communications

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
February 11, 2011

FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT:
Kristy Weinshel
202.833.6815
kristy.weinshel@utc.org

King Bill Acknowledges Vital Role of Public Utilities in Emergency Response Communications

Washington, D.C. – The Utilities Telecom Council (UTC) today applauded Rep. Peter King (R-NY) for introducing H.R. 607, Broadband for First Responders Act of 2011, which allocates 700 MHz D block spectrum to public safety for the creation of a broadband interoperable emergency response network. The bill recognizes utilities as important participants in emergency response and disaster recovery efforts and expands public safety communications options beyond solely those provided by commercial carriers.

"UTC is pleased that Rep. King recognizes the important role utilities play in our nation’s emergency response communications," William R. Moroney, UTC President and CEO said. "We look forward to working with him and his staff to further strengthen the country’s emergency response capabilities by giving utilities shared access to the public safety communications network envisioned by the legislation."

Utilities Telecom Council
The Utilities Telecom Council (UTC) is a global, full-service trade association dedicated to creating a favorable business, regulatory, and technological environment for members. Founded in 1948, UTC has evolved into a dynamic organization that represents the broad communications interests of electric, gas, and water utilities; natural gas pipelines; other critical infrastructure entities and other industry stakeholders. Visit www.utc.org for more information on UTC and its services.