[Congressional Record Volume 162, Number 84 (Thursday, May 26, 2016)]
[Senate]
[Pages S3294-S3295]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]

      By Ms. CANTWELL (for herself, Mr. Booker, and Mr. Schumer):
  S. 2997. A bill to direct the Federal Communications Commission to 
commence proceedings related to the resiliency of critical 
telecommunications networks during times of emergency, and for other 
purposes; to the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation.
  Mr. BOOKER. Mr. President, I am pleased to have worked with Senator 
Cantwell and Senator Schumer to introduce the SANDy Act today which 
would provide much needed certainty and resiliency to our 
communications networks during times of natural disaster or emergency.
  Severe weather and emergencies can have devastating effects on 
communities, as New Jersey knows all too well. In the aftermath of 
Superstorm Sandy, we experienced loss in our communications networks 
including phone and Internet services. Natural disasters are one of the 
most important times to maintain access to 9-1-1 in order to obtain 
lifesaving services.
  Just this week, this legislation passed the House with overwhelming 
bipartisan support, including from the New Jersey delegation led by 
Congressman Pallone's efforts. I hope the Senate will now turn its 
attention to this important matter and move this initiative forward to 
the benefit of New Jerseyans and people across the country.
  I am further pleased that phone service providers entered into a 
voluntary agreement last month in order to provide service to consumers 
during times of emergency, regardless of the network the consumer 
subscribes to in that area.
  The SANDy Act expresses the Sense of Congress that this agreement 
should continue to be adhered to in order to best serve 9-1-1 
professionals, first responders, and local governments in accessing 
communications services during times of emergency.
  Further, the legislation collects additional data on network security 
during times of disaster and the resiliency of telecommunications 
networks power utility during times of emergency. With additional 
information and data, we can better prepare for disasters and ensure 
our networks operate at the best of their ability when severe storms 
strike.
  Finally, the legislation provides authority to FEMA to reimburse 
costs associated with restoring and repairing critical communications 
services to first responders and communities.

[[Page S3295]]

  The SANDy Act is an important step toward better protecting and 
preserving vital communications networks when disaster strikes. I urge 
my colleagues to support this legislation.
                                 ______