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NAB Files Comments In Support of National EAS Test

NAB filed comments in response to the Federal Communications Commission's (FCC) Second Further Notice of Proposed Rulemaking regarding a review of the Emergency Alert System (EAS). NAB supports the FCC's proposal for national, annual testing of EAS, and offered several recommendations to improve the value of the proposed exercises.

Among the recommendations, NAB supports the proposal not to require national testing more frequently than once a year, as more frequent testing could decrease genuine public response to the exercises. NAB also recommends a comprehensive review of all state EAS plans and EAS handbooks prior to the first national EAS test. Such a review would illuminate discrepancies and clarify uncertainties that could disrupt EAS testing exercises. Further, NAB supports test-related information reporting, limited, however, to data which can be feasibly collected by EAS participants. NAB also supports the public availability of only national or statewide data, and not EAS participant-specific data. Finally, to ensure successful participation by those participants with previously acquired EAS equipment, NAB recommends that the FCC require EAS equipment manufacturers to disseminate information on any necessary equipment modifications. Similarly, NAB suggests that the FCC develop EAS equipment certification requirements to ensure consistent EAS participation.

To view a full copy of the EAS filing click here.


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