A version of this post originally appeared on Lexology, a daily newsletter that delivers tailored updates and analysis to the desktops of business professionals worldwide.
All Emergency Alert System (“EAS”) Participants must complete EAS Test Reporting System (“ETRS”) Form One on or before August 26, 2016. This would include all cable television systems, TV stations, radio stations and low power TV stations. Failure to comply with the Commission’s ETRS requirements may open EAS Participants to FCC enforcement actions. Therefore, it is essential that all EAS Participants understand their obligations with the rollout of the FCC’s new ETRS system.
Background
With a multitude of major emergency events occurring over the past several years, the EAS has never been more crucial than it is today. As the nation moves from the use of legacy networks to next-generation technologies, the FCC has been intent on ensuring the improved operation and exercise of the EAS.
To test the aptitude of the nation’s EAS equipment, the Federal Emergency Management Agency (“FEMA”), in conjunction with the FCC, conducted the first nationwide EAS test on November 9, 2011.
