By Allison Peck
Nebraska Gov. Jim Pillen signed an executive order Thursday, October 15, at North Platte Fire Station 3 establishing a statewide task force to evaluate emergency communications systems and identify improvements for first responders.
The Statewide Public Safety Communications Task Force will conduct a comprehensive review of Nebraska’s public safety communications infrastructure and deliver recommendations to the governor within 60 days. The initiative follows recent severe weather and wildfires that highlighted communication challenges for emergency personnel, particularly in rural areas.
Led by the Nebraska Military Department, the task force will examine gaps in radio coverage, equipment compatibility between agencies, aging technology and training needs. Members will also evaluate potential local, state and federal funding sources to support long-term improvements.
Pillen said reliable communication is essential for first responders to coordinate during emergencies and request assistance when needed.
The task force brings together state agencies, local governments, county officials and emergency responders. Participating organizations include the Nebraska Emergency Management Agency, Nebraska State Patrol, Nebraska Department of Transportation, Nebraska State Fire Marshal, Nebraska Game and Parks Commission and Nebraska Public Power District, along with other state offices and local government representatives.
Maj. Gen. Craig Strong, adjutant general of the Nebraska National Guard, said the Nebraska Military Department's emergency management experience and relationships with local officials position it to lead the effort. He emphasized the importance of establishing partnerships with police, fire departments and emergency managers before disasters occur.
Nebraska State Patrol Superintendent Col. Bryan Waugh also stressed the importance of communication systems that work across agencies and jurisdictions, saying every first responder needs to be able to communicate when lives are at stake.
State Sen. Mike Jacobson pointed to this year's wildfires as an example of the need for dependable emergency communications, particularly for volunteer firefighters working to protect rural communities.
NDOT Director Vicki Kramer said the department and Nebraska Broadband Office have already begun investigating communication gaps and researching potential solutions.
The executive order took effect immediately. The task force is expected to submit its findings and actionable recommendations to Pillen no later than 60 days after the order was signed.