Texas 2011 - 82nd Regular

Texas House Bill HCR90

Introduced
3/9/11  
Introduced
3/9/11  
Refer
3/16/11  
Refer
3/16/11  
Report Pass
4/11/11  
Report Pass
4/11/11  
Engrossed
4/27/11  
Engrossed
4/27/11  
Refer
5/5/11  
Refer
5/5/11  
Report Pass
5/17/11  
Report Pass
5/17/11  
Enrolled
5/20/11  
Enrolled
5/20/11  
Passed
6/17/11  

Caption

Urging Congress to provide a comprehensive public alert warning system.

Impact

If enacted, HCR90 could have significant implications for state and federal emergency communication strategies. It calls for the federal government to expedite laws ensuring that a robust public alert system is established across the nation. Additionally, it advocates for the integration of public and private sector resources to enhance communication reliability. The resolution promotes the idea that every American, particularly those with disabilities or language barriers, should have access to timely alerts regardless of geographical limitations, aligning with broader goals of inclusion and safety in public service responses.

Summary

HCR90 is a House Concurrent Resolution urging the United States Congress to provide a comprehensive public alert warning system. The resolution highlights the inadequacies of existing alert systems, such as the Emergency Alert System (EAS) and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) Weather Radio. It emphasizes the need for a modernized approach to emergency communications that takes full advantage of contemporary technologies, including wireless devices and satellite solutions, to ensure timely alerts during emergencies, including natural disasters and terrorist attacks. The bill underscores that current systems are outdated and rely heavily on over-the-air broadcasting, which may not be effective in all situations.

Conclusion

HCR90 serves as a call to action for Congress to enhance emergency communication infrastructure in the United States. By urging a streamlined, multifaceted alert system, the resolution is poised to address existing shortcomings while striving for a proactive stance on public safety. The outcome of this bill may set a precedent for future legislation focused on emergency management and interagency collaboration both at the federal and state levels.

Contention

The resolution addresses critical public safety issues but may provoke debate regarding the unification of emergency communication protocols. Some stakeholders may argue that a comprehensive federal system could diminish the authority of state and local governments to manage their own emergencies. Others might raise concerns over privacy and data management in a nationwide alert framework. There may also be apprehensions about ensuring equitable access to technology in rural and underserved areas, which could complicate the implementation of such a system.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

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