Representatives Bill Johnson (R-OH-06) and Kim Schrier (D-WA-08) last week introduced legislation directing the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) to guarantee more comprehensive emergency-call connectivity in rural areas.
Both of the bill’s sponsors represent districts with wide rural expanses containing many communities that don’t have reliable service for remote devices, often leading to public safety contingencies. Johnson’s district extends from Northeast Ohio to the state’s south but is well outside major cities. Schrier represents an area that begins just outside Seattle and Tacoma but stretches well into her state’s sparsely populated center.
“The ALERT Parity Act would ensure every American, regardless of their zip code, would be able to receive critical emergency alerts and make 911 calls,” Johnson said. “This lifesaving legislation would enable access to emergency services for areas that would otherwise not have access to cellular services – especially in rural areas like Appalachia Ohio where I represent…. It is critical that Congress address the challenges Americans living in technologically underserved areas face when it comes to cellular connectivity.”
The congressman thanked Schrier for her help in crafting the measure which would allow satellite direct-to-cell providers to apply to the FCC for access to radio spectrum to eliminate gaps in coverage.
Schrier said that while satellites keep regions across America connected, many locales still lack access to first responders. She recalled hearing from constituents who said they have not been able to make 911 calls in times of crisis.
“I’m glad to be introducing the bipartisan ALERT Parity Act to allow the FCC to create guidelines to protect satellite companies, paving the way for satellites to provide access to emergency services,” she said. “This will save lives in my district.”
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Bradley Vasoli is managing editor of The Ohio Star. Follow Brad on Twitter at @BVasoli. Email tips to [email protected].
