Summary
AT&T Inc. (T) filed an 8-K on December 2, 2016, to provide an update on its bid for the First Responder Network (FirstNet) contract. AT&T has been informed that it is a bidder within the "competitive range" for this significant nationwide mobile broadband network initiative aimed at public safety. The company also detailed recent developments regarding other potential bidders. Specifically, pdvWireless was informed it was no longer being considered, and Rivada Mercury, LLC filed a lawsuit protesting its exclusion from the competitive range. AT&T has moved to intervene in this litigation. Based on publicly available information, AT&T believes it may be the only remaining bidder in the competitive range.
Key Highlights
- 1AT&T is confirmed to be a bidder within the 'competitive range' for the First Responder Network (FirstNet) contract.
- 2The FirstNet contract aims to establish a nationwide mobile broadband network for first responders.
- 3Rivada Mercury, LLC, a former bidder, has filed a lawsuit challenging its exclusion from the competitive range.
- 4AT&T has filed a motion to intervene in Rivada Mercury's litigation.
- 5Based on current information, AT&T believes it may be the sole remaining bidder in the competitive range.
- 6The final scope and investment for the network will depend on individual state participation.
- 7The litigation process for Rivada's protest is scheduled to extend to February 16, 2017.
Frequently Asked Questions
The First Responder Network (FirstNet) is an initiative to build, operate, and improve a dedicated nationwide mobile broadband network for first responders, including police, firefighters, and EMS personnel, to enhance their communication capabilities.
AT&T has been informed that it is a bidder within the 'competitive range' for the FirstNet contract. Based on publicly available information regarding other bidders' statuses, AT&T believes it may be the only bidder remaining in the competitive range.
Rivada Mercury, LLC filed a lawsuit protesting its exclusion from the competitive range for the FirstNet contract. AT&T has moved to intervene in this litigation to protect its position as a bidder and likely to ensure the procurement process proceeds smoothly, potentially without further challenges that could delay the contract award.
If AT&T's bid is accepted, the company would be responsible for serving the public safety community through this contract. This would involve significant investment in national infrastructure, though the actual reach and investment scale would be subject to the decision of individual states to participate in the network.