Disaster Communications Coordination and Preparedness Act

Key Points

• This bill requires the Federal Communications Commission to update how it shares information during emergencies. It focuses on a system that tracks whether phone and internet services are working during disasters like hurricanes or wildfires.
• Local, state, and tribal emergency workers would get better information from the federal government. This helps them know which areas have working cell service so they can send help where it is needed most.
• During big disasters, communication often breaks down. This plan aims to make sure the government and phone companies are talking to each other so that first responders are not left in the dark.
• The agency would be required to create easy to understand guides for local officials. These guides will explain what federal resources are available and how to get help when local towers go down.
• The agency will also look into using its 24 hour operations center as a main point of contact for local leaders. This would give small town mayors or tribal leaders a direct line to get updates on communication repairs.

Impact Analysis

Govbase has not yet run an impact analysis on this legislation.