Broadcasters Push for NPRM on Virtual Emergency Alert Systems
Broadcasters urged the FCC to issue an NPRM on NAB’s proposal to allow them to use virtual, software-based emergency alert system equipment instead of physical devices, according to an ex parte filing recapping a meeting with an aide to Chairman Brendan Carr. “Certain changes in the EAS marketplace increase the need for prompt attention to this proposal,” said representatives of iHeartMedia, Beasley Media, Cox Media, New York Public Radio and NAB in the filing, posted Thursday in docket 15-94.
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Sage Alerting Systems announced last year that it would no longer manufacture certain hardware largely used for the EAS systems in radio stations due to supply chain issues. Digital Alert Systems, another EAS equipment maker, has raised concerns about NAB’s proposal (see 2505230056).
The broadcasters said in their filing that the software-based system would enable system repairs and updates through software patches instead of requiring manual changes from an engineer. The proposal also comports with the FCC’s “Delete” proceeding because it would “relieve entities that choose this option of the regulatory and practical burdens associated with having to own and maintain hardware devices,” they added.