OFFICIALS LEGISLATION INTEREST GROUPS PUBLIC STATEMENTS COMMITTEES VETOES

Integrated Public Alert and Warning System Modernization Act of 2015

Floor Speech

Date: March 21, 2016
Location: Washington, DC
Issues: National Security Technology and Communication Environment

I thank my colleague from Pennsylvania (Mr. Costello); Chairman Barletta; and my good friend, Ranking Member Peter DeFazio.

Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of this measure today. The Integrated Public Alert and Warning System Modernization Act of 2015 directs the administrator of FEMA to codify the Integrated Public Alert and Warning System, commonly known as IPAWS.

With IPAWS, Mr. Speaker, public safety officials are able to warn the public of impending hazards using multiple communications platforms, such as radio and television broadcasts, mobile devices, and other Internet services. These warnings, Mr. Speaker, can even be geographically targeted so that only those in harm's way will receive the messages. All of this leads to saving lives, Mr. Speaker, and reducing property damage.

During the months of May and June, tornados are most likely to strike the great Hoosier State. Getting citizens to safety or even alerting them to shelter in place before a tornado strikes can ultimately be the difference between life and death. Success in that effort, Mr. Speaker, depends largely on access to timely and precise information.

During 2011, a violent storm caused the sudden collapse of a concert stage at the Indiana State Fair. This tragic incident killed seven and severely injured dozens more. It could have been much worse. Timely alerts enabled fair officials to clear the midway minutes before the storm struck, potentially saving hundreds of lives.

Our committee has primary jurisdiction over IPAWS, and we have worked hard, Mr. Speaker, on this issue for several Congresses. While this bill is similar to another bill--H.R. 1472--that the Transportation Committee reported last year, I am very disappointed that regular order was not followed in S. 1180. It should have been referred to the committee of jurisdiction so that the House of Representatives can do the job we were elected to do: consider the details and implications of all the different provisions and how they impact our alert and warning system. Despite the lack of regular order, Mr. Speaker, I still support this measure greatly.
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Mr. CARSON of Indiana. Mr. Speaker, may I ask how much time is remaining on both sides.
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