H.R. 7022: Mystic Alerts Act

The Mystic Alerts Act aims to enhance how emergency alerts are transmitted to the public by utilizing satellite technology. Specifically, the bill outlines certain requirements and processes for commercial mobile service providers who choose to transmit these alerts through satellites. Here’s a breakdown of key components:

Service Provider Responsibility

• Filing Election: Commercial mobile service providers must declare whether they will transmit emergency alerts by satellite. This declaration needs to be filed with the Federal Communications Commission (FCC).
• Notification Agreements: If a provider decides to transmit alerts via satellite, they must notify the FCC and agree to follow specific technical standards and protocols set by the FCC.
• Opting Out: Providers must also inform their subscribers if they choose not to send alerts by satellite, ensuring that new and existing customers are aware of this choice.
• Consumer Choice: Subscribers who do not wish to receive emergency alerts via satellite can opt out. Providers must ensure these users do not receive alerts through this medium if they’ve opted out.

Regulatory Framework

• Proposed Rulemaking: Within six months of the bill's enactment, the FCC is required to publish a notice to propose new rules, which will include the technical standards and protocols necessary for satellite alerting.
• Final Rule Issuance: By 12 months after the bill's enactment, the FCC, in consultation with the Department of Homeland Security and the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), must finalize and implement these standards and protocols. This process will ensure that providers are well-prepared to transmit alerts effectively.

Objective and Purpose

The aim of the Mystic Alerts Act is to ensure that emergency alerts can reach individuals in areas where traditional mobile service may not be reliable, especially during emergencies. By facilitating satellite transmission of these alerts, the bill seeks to improve public safety and response times during critical situations.

Implementation Timeline

The bill outlines a clear timeline for implementation, requiring the FCC to act within specific periods following enactment: six months for proposed rules and twelve months for final rules.

Relevant Companies

• T - AT&T Inc.: As a major mobile service provider, AT&T would need to evaluate its systems for satellite alert transmission and compliance with new regulations.
• VZ - Verizon Communications Inc.: Similar to AT&T, Verizon will have to consider its approach to satellite alert capacity and adhere to the forthcoming technical standards.
• SBAC - SBA Communications Corporation: This company, which focuses on communications infrastructure, may be involved in the development of necessary systems to support satellite transmissions for emergency alerts.