Gov. Jim Pillen signed an executive order Thursday creating a task force to examine gaps in Nebraska’s emergency communications systems. The group has 60 days to deliver findings and recommendations to the governor.
Pillen signed the order at North Platte Fire Station 3, saying first responders need reliable communications during disasters. The review will focus on technical, operational and structural problems officials say were highlighted by recent severe weather and wildfires.
“To do that job safely and effectively, our first responders – especially our volunteer firefighters in rural Nebraska – have got to have tools that actually work,” Pillen said in a news release. “When our first responders call for backup on the radio, that line must be clear and reliable across every square mile of Nebraska.”
The Nebraska Military Department will lead the Statewide Public Safety Communications Task Force. Members will identify geographic dead zones and vulnerabilities in radio coverage, examine whether equipment from different vendors can work together, and review aging hardware and training needs.
The group will also evaluate local, state and federal funding sources to support communications systems over the long term. The announcement did not identify specific funding commitments or equipment purchases.
Nebraska State Patrol Superintendent Col. Bryan Waugh said the effort should help responders communicate across agencies when dangerous situations arise. He pointed to lessons from the Sept. 11 terrorist attacks about the importance of compatible communications systems.
“The Nebraska State Patrol is committed to this task force and working alongside our partners, especially those serving rural Nebraska, to identify communication gaps and develop practical solutions,” Waugh said. “Every first responder, regardless of where they serve, deserves the ability to communicate when lives are on the line.”
State Sen. Mike Jacobson said this year’s wildfires demonstrated the importance of reliable communications for rural responders. He described the task force as a step toward addressing a persistent problem affecting firefighter safety.
The task force will include the Nebraska Emergency Management Agency, State Patrol, Department of Transportation, Office of the Chief Information Officer, State Fire Marshal, Game and Parks Commission and Nebraska Public Power District. The League of Nebraska Municipalities, Nebraska Association of County Officials and rural volunteer fire leadership will also participate.
NDOT Director Vicki Kramer said her department has already begun investigating gaps and potential solutions. She said NDOT’s experience using communications technology, along with the Nebraska Broadband Office’s expertise and resources, would contribute to the review.
The executive order takes effect immediately. The task force must submit its final analysis and recommendations within 60 days of Thursday’s signing.