The Senate has adopted a wireless emergency alert system as part of a larger comprehensive port security bill still being debated.
It includes language from a Commerce Committee-approved bill to establish the Warning, Alert and Response Network, which includes funding to expand EAS to include digital technology and help coordinate government efforts to improve the system.
The Senate action essentially moves EAS out of the era of the broadcast radio and television and into the wireless era, according to the committee.
Additionally, during FCC Chairman Martin's renomination hearing, Commerce Committee member Jim DeMint (R-S.C.), asked Martin if he would delay the action on the commission's pending EAS rulemaking until after Congress acts to prevent passage of another top-down government mandated system; Martin agreed.
WARN Act companion legislation was introduced in the House this summer. The House Commerce Committee held a hearing in July on the bill, introduced by Reps. John Shimkus (R-Ill.), and Al Wynn (D-Md.).
(Radio World)
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