[Congressional Record Volume 158, Number 80 (Thursday, May 31, 2012)]
[House]
[Page H3281]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                       SUPPORT LOCAL BROADCASTERS

  (Ms. RICHARDSON asked and was given permission to address the House 
for 1 minute and to revise and extend her remarks.)
  Ms. RICHARDSON. Mr. Speaker, tomorrow marks the official start of 
this year's hurricane season. As ranking member of the Subcommittee of 
Emergency Communications Preparedness and Response that supports the 
Department of Homeland Security, I'm speaking today to note that 
broadcasters have demonstrated a continued commitment to local 
communities in providing critical information during times of disaster.
  When disaster strikes, Americans depend upon their local television 
and radio stations for access to lifesaving information and emergency 
announcements. Broadcasters' commitment to public service is never more 
apparent than in the time of a crisis.
  As we typically see during times of disasters, whether it's a 
hurricane, flood, fire, tornado, earthquake, or a widespread power 
outage, broadcasters remain to cover the dangerous situations, and, 
most importantly, they provide vital assistance to those who might need 
it.
  During an emergency, broadcasters deliver comprehensive, up-to-date 
warnings and information to those affected areas, which helps victims 
and also brings comfort to family members who are awaiting any kind of 
information. This issue is very important to all of us. Broadcasters 
can provide information in a moment's notice when we need it most.
  I ask my colleagues to join me to commend our local broadcasters for 
their work, their continued readiness, and the important role that they 
play in the time of an emergency.

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