The Los Angeles Regional Interoperable Communications System (LA-RICS) is a modern, integrated wireless voice and data communications system that will support more than 34,000 first responders and local mission-critical personnel within the region. The public safety community within the Los Angeles region is working together to provide the necessary leadership and secure the funding needed to develop and deploy LA-RICS.

Large scale emergencies, as well as day-to-day operations, require communication and coordination on the part of law enforcement, fire and emergency medical first responders. However, because of fragmented and obsolete radio systems, many public safety agencies in the Los Angeles region operate in an environment where it is difficult, if not impossible, to communicate with one another.

This situation is particularly challenging because of the size and number of agencies serving the region. The Los Angeles region is one of the largest urban areas in the nation with more than 10 million residents living within 4,084 square miles – a population greater than that of 42 of the 50 states. 50 law enforcement and 31 fire service agencies serve the area's residents and visitors.

The Los Angeles Regional Interoperable Communication System (LA-RICS) is planned to remedy the communication challenges. Through a joint effort, of the Los Angeles region’s public safety agencies are planning a regional, interoperable radio system that would enable first responders to communicate with each other during routine and emergency operations.