[Congressional Record Volume 149, Number 92 (Friday, June 20, 2003)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1313]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




             INTRODUCING THE EMERGENCY WARNING ACT OF 2003

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                        HON. CAROLYN B. MALONEY

                              of new york

                    in the house of representatives

                        Thursday, June 19, 2003

  Mrs. MALONEY. Mr. Speaker, today I introduce legislation, the 
Emergency Warning Act of 2003, which would require the Department of 
Homeland Security and the Department of Commerce to ensure that 
comprehensive, easily understood emergency warnings reach every 
American who may be at risk in any type of disaster. The bill instructs 
Commerce and DHS to work with the government agencies that currently 
issue warnings, with first responders, with private industry, and with 
the media to ensure that our emergency warning system informs the 
public when a disaster occurs.
  We don't always know when a disaster will occur. However, we do know 
that we are all at risk for a natural disaster like a hurricane, or a 
man-made disaster like a terrorist attack. With the advances in 
technology, we can no longer rely on our televisions or radios to 
inform us if we need to evacuate our homes or businesses. It's time to 
utilize the available technology to ensure that all forms of 
communication are used to inform the public about emergency warnings.

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