Washington, D.C. – Today U.S. Rep. Mario Diaz-Balart (R-FL), the Ranking Republican of the Transportation and Infrastructure’s Subcommittee on Economic Development, Public Buildings and Emergency Management, participated in a hearing on the nation’s emergency alert and warning system, which dates back to the 1960s.
“The ability to warn the public of an emergency is a life or death matter,” said Diaz-Balart. “Undoubtedly, our current system is not sufficiently adequate, comprehensive or efficient and needs to be brought up to speed with present day technologies.
“It is important that we ensure that our communities are properly prepared for a major disaster or national emergency. I demand that FEMA prioritize this matter and work with states and localities, as well as private partners, in identifying what works and implementing the necessary changes,” said Diaz-Balart.
“I thank Chairwoman Norton for working with me on this important issue that affects all Americans, and also thank Chairman Oberstar and Ranking Member Mica for their support of the IPAWS legislation,” said Diaz-Balart.
Watch Rep. Diaz-Balart’s statement on YouTube.
The U.S. Government Accountability Office (GAO) today released a report (GAO-09-834) critical of federal efforts to update the emergency alert system. Access the full GAO report here.
Earlier this year, Diaz-Balart introduced H.R. 2591, The Integrated Public Alert and Warning System Act, which requires FEMA to modernize and implement an integrated public alerts and warning system. For more information on today’s hearing, click here.
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