Remarks of Commissioner Jessica Rosenworcel at Eye of the Storm: Broadcasters' Role in Emergencies

It is time for the Federal Communications Commission to commit to hearings and a report making clear what worked, what didn’t and what steps we can take to improve our communications vulnerabilities in the wake of Hurricanes Maria, Harvey, and Irma. After all, there’s precedent for this approach. It’s exactly what was done in the wake of Hurricane Katrina and Superstorm Sandy. I know we learned from those events and as a result our communications systems are stronger and more resilient. I bet, there are lessons, too, to be learned here. I also bet that the role of broadcasters in keeping communities safe was a big one—and I want us to do what we can to ensure that continues.