H.R. 5154: Resilient Emergency Alert Communications and Training Act

This bill, known as the Resilient Emergency Alert Communications and Training Act (REACT Act), aims to improve the effectiveness of emergency alert and warning systems across the United States, particularly at the state, local, and Tribal levels. Specifically, it proposes the following:

Program Development

The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) would be required to create a program that provides both technical and financial assistance to various authorities. This program would focus on:

• Conducting regular field training and end-to-end testing of emergency alert systems.
• Organizing community-based exercises to practice and enhance alert systems.

Types of Assistance Provided

The assistance offered under this program would encompass several key areas, including:

• Funding and training for community exercises, including live testing at the local level.
• Help in defining roles and responsibilities within the emergency alert system across Different authorities.
• Creating templates for emergency messages aligned with scientific research, focusing on message clarity and completeness.
• Training on effective messaging practices and evaluating the effectiveness of alerts.
• Development of standardized metrics to gauge how well alert and warning systems function.
• Testing technology and infrastructure for operational effectiveness across multiple communication platforms.
• Providing technical support for educational campaigns that inform the public about the alert systems and necessary responses.
• Reviewing local policies and procedures regarding the use of these alert systems.

Implementation Plan

Within one year of the bill's enactment, FEMA must submit a detailed operational plan to Congress. This plan should outline anticipated costs and how the effectiveness of the proposed training and exercises will be assessed.

Reporting Requirements

FEMA would be obligated to provide a report to Congress two years after the bill is enacted, and annually thereafter. The report must include:

• Data from various alerting authorities on their training and testing activities.
• An evaluation of the effectiveness of these activities based on the metrics outlined in the operational plan.
• Recommendations for any necessary updates to the plan.

Financial Provisions

The bill authorizes the appropriation of $30 million per fiscal year from 2025 through 2035 to support the program. Funding aims to ensure resources are available for the training and enhancement of emergency alert systems.

Duration and Scope

The authority to operate under this program will last for 10 years after the bill's enactment. Importantly, the bill does not compel state, local, or Tribal authorities to adopt specific emergency alert systems. Each authority retains the freedom to choose their methods of communication.

Definition of Emergency Alert Systems

The term "emergency alert and warning system" refers to any system employed by authorities to warn the public about emergencies or natural hazards, including those integrated into the national public alert and warning system.

Relevant Companies

• IBM - As a provider of communication technologies, IBM may see increased engagement in developing technologies that support emergency alert systems.
• Alphabet Inc. (GOOGL) - Google, through its various platforms, could be involved in disseminating emergency alerts, enhancing public awareness and response mechanisms.
• Caterpillar Inc. (CAT) - Given that Caterpillar manufactures equipment used for disaster recovery, changes in emergency protocols could affect their operations and demand for their products.