This bill directs the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) to improve how Federal communications resources are coordinated and explained during disasters and emergencies. Key tasks in the bill are: (1) within 180 days, review and, if useful, update how the FCC announces activation or deactivation of the Disaster Information Reporting System (DIRS); (2) within 18 months, evaluate whether the FCC should expand public safety liaison work (for example, using the FCC’s 24-hour operations center) to serve as a clear point of contact for State, local, Tribal, and territorial officials and to help coordinate with communications providers; and (3) within 1 year, create plain-language materials that explain DIRS, the Mandatory Disaster Response Initiative, what information is available during DIRS activations, how to access reports, and FCC points of contact. The bill requires the FCC to consult, as practicable, with communications providers and State, local, Tribal, and territorial emergency and public safety authorities. The bill also clarifies that it does not require the FCC to adopt new regulations or create new reporting or operational requirements for providers.
No publicly available information on projected costs. The bill sets deadlines for FCC reviews, evaluations, and the development of materials but does not include a cost estimate or specified funding in the text provided.
The bill’s stated purpose is to support improved awareness and coordination of Federal communications resources during disasters and emergencies. Supporters would say it helps clarify how DIRS works, creates clear points of contact for officials, improves coordination between officials and communications providers, and produces plain-language guidance for emergency planners, all without creating new provider mandates.
No publicly available information on opposition or specific criticisms in the bill text or metadata provided.