[Federal Register Volume 59, Number 248 (Wednesday, December 28, 1994)]
[Unknown Section]
[Page ]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 94-31317]
[Federal Register: December 28, 1994]
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Part V
Federal Communications Commission
_______________________________________________________________________
47 CFR Part 0 et al.
Emergency Broadcast System, Final Rules and Proposed Rule
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FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION
47 CFR Parts 0, 11, 73, and 76
[FO Docket No. 91-171/91-301, FCC 94-288]
Emergency Broadcast System
AGENCY: Federal Communications Commission.
ACTION: Final rules.
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SUMMARY: This Report and Order replaces the current Emergency Broadcast
System (EBS) with an Emergency Alert System (EAS) to alert the public
of emergencies. This Report and Order requires broadcast stations and
many cable TV systems to participate, creates a new generation of
alerting equipment and streamlines operational procedures for system
participants. Furthermore, the R&O removes the Part of the FCC's rules
concerning EBS in its entirety and incorporates it into a new Part of
the FCC's Code of Federal Regulations. The purpose of the rules in this
part is to prescribe how communication services such as broadcasting,
cable, and other public service providers will function under the
technical standards and operational procedures of the new System.
EFFECTIVE DATE: January 27, 1995.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT:
Dr. Helena Mitchell or Frank Lucia, Compliance and Information Bureau,
(202) 418-1220.
SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: This is a synopsis of the Commission's
Report and Order in FO Docket 91-171/91-301, adopted November 10, 1994,
and released December 9, 1994.
The full text of this Commission Report and Order, which is in the
same document as a Further Notice of Proposed Rulemaking, is available
for inspection and copying during normal business hours in the FCC's
Public Reference Center (Room 239), 1919 M Street, NW., Washington, DC
20554. The complete text of the Report and Order also may be purchased
from the Commission's duplication contractor, International
Transcription Services, Inc., 2100 M Street, NW., Suite 140,
Washington, DC 20037, (202) 857-3800.
Synopsis of Report and Order
The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) adopted a Report and
Order to create a new Emergency Alert System (EAS) to replace the more
than 40 year old Emergency Broadcast System (EBS). EBS was no longer
able to accommodate advances in communications. The advent of digital
technology and the expansion of cable, satellite, microwave
distribution, and fiber optics, very few of which currently participate
in the EBS, will enable the new system to offer better and faster
alerting to the public.
The Report and Order removes Subpart G, Part 73, of the FCC's rules
concerning EBS in its entirety, and incorporates it into a new Part 11
of the rules dealing with EAS. 47 CFR Subpart G, Part 73, and Part 11.
The rule changes are provided at the end of this synopsis.
Furthermore, the Report and Order requires participation by
broadcast stations and cable systems in the new EAS, and encourages
voluntary participation by others. Cable systems must participate, and
the Further Notice of Proposed Rulemaking asks for comments regarding
whether a defined class of smaller systems should be exempted from
participation. Cable systems will for the first time be required to
participate in the emergency alerting process because numerous
Americans now depend on cable for news and information and because
Congress has directed the Commission to ensure that cable subscribers
have access to emergency information on the same basis as broadcast
viewers and listeners. Most Americans receive one or both of these
sources. The Report and Order requires broadcast stations and cable
systems to install and operate new equipment for national alerts, while
relaxing certain equipment requirements for noncommercial educational
Class D FM stations and low power television stations. Other
transmission media, such as satellite, telephone, paging and public
service providers, are also encouraged to participate.
Technically, the new equipment will have many advanced features
currently unavailable with the EBS, such as multiple monitoring of
alerting sources, ability to operate by remote control, compatibility
with other communications media, the option for automated operation,
and the ability to target emergency specific information to exact
geographic areas that are at risk. Operationally, EAS will allow
audiences to receive quick and accurate access to emergency
information. Unlike the old EBS, the new equipment and procedures will
also minimize the risk of failure or confusion due to human error.
The new equipment can be programmed to provide automatic alerts for
specific types of emergencies such as tornadoes or nuclear accidents.
Automatic interrupt capability will allow immediate suspension of
programming and will transmit both national EAS alerts as well as state
or local emergency alerts. Broadcast stations and cable systems can
choose when they want their programming interrupted automatically, as,
for example, when they are operating unattended.
The new digital EAS equipment will allow participants to relay news
of emergencies only to affected geographic areas so that unaffected
areas are not alarmed. The new equipment also allows for coding to
identify special kinds of alerts, such as for power outages, nuclear
power plant incidents, and release of harmful chemicals.
The new equipment will also be capable of monitoring several
sources of emergency information, such as broadcast stations or
emergency management offices. This multiple input system replaces the
old single station ``daisy chain'' system of monitoring in which
emergency messages were relayed from one station to another. The
multiple input system is significantly more reliable because stations
are not dependent on one station to receive an emergency alert.
In addition, the new technology will make it possible to transmit
emergency information to the public regardless of listening or viewing
habits. It will no longer be necessary to be watching broadcast
television or listening to the radio in order to receive an emergency
alert. Specially equipped consumer end products, such as televisions,
car radios, pagers, CD players and other devices will be able to
receive an EAS alert and provide a warning even when the device is shut
off.
The new EAS will have other capabilities. The EAS protocol can be
used to develop alert messages in the primary language of the station's
or cable channel's programming, thus increasing the chance that the
listening public will comprehend emergency information.
New operational procedures will enhance the public's ability to
receive emergency information. For example, the new rules require
visual alerts on television stations and participating cable systems
which will quickly provide the hearing impaired with emergency
information. Piercing tones will alert the blind or preoccupied
listener.
New testing procedures can assure the equipment is functioning
properly without causing the public to ``tune out.'' All EAS
participants have the option to continue weekly tests with on-air
messages or to perform three of the four weekly tests during the month
unobtrusively. Such testing will be almost unnoticeable to the
listener. A monthly on-air test will still be required, however. During
the monthly on-air test, each State or local Emergency Communications
Committee will develop a script and test the system as if it were an
actual alert. A shorter EAS two-tone signal lasting only 8 seconds can
be used. During an actual emergency, however, a longer tone of up to 25
seconds is encouraged to attract the blind and hard-of-hearing. A new
rule also prohibits false or misleading use of the EAS two-tone or
alert codes.
The standard protocol for the activation of the EAS is compatible
with the new digitized NOAA Weather Radio (NWR) system. Each year there
are several hundred lives lost, several thousand injuries sustained and
billions of dollars in property damaged due to weather related and man-
made emergencies. EAS will continue to work with the National Weather
Service to provide emergency weather information to the public more
quickly while at the same time complementing the NWR.
The FCC will terminate the Emergency Broadcast System Advisory
Committee and the National Business and Industry Advisory Council which
had served the old EBS. In its stead, the FCC will establish a smaller
National Advisory Committee (NAC) to provide coordination and direction
in the implementation of the new rules and regulations for the EAS. The
NAC will advise the Commission on EAS policies, rules, and procedures.
It will develop training and education initiatives to explain the EAS
to participants and the public. It will be comprised of volunteer
government and industry personnel who will be appointed by the
Commission for two-year terms.
The cost to broadcasters of the new EAS devices is comparable to
the cost of replacing existing EBS equipment which is nearing the end
of its useful operational life. The EAS devices will have significantly
more features than the old equipment and will be much cheaper to
operate. Cost to cable systems is expected to be higher, but they will
have an extended time to implement EAS.
In designing a timetable for the system, the Commission balanced
the lead time needed by industry to begin the new service against the
need to ensure the public's safety. Both radio and television
broadcasters will be required to replace EBS equipment with EAS
equipment by July 1, 1996 in accordance with the following timetable:
(1) Existing EBS decoders at broadcast stations must be modified by
July 1, 1995 to be capable of decoding a shortened, eight second
version of the two-tone alerting signal currently used in the EBS; (2)
after July 1, 1995, stations may transmit the shortened two-tone
attention signal for not less than eight seconds nor more than 25
seconds; (3) use of the new EAS digital equipment is optional until
July 1, 1996 for broadcast stations and mandatory thereafter; (4) key
EAS sources are advised to begin using the new digital signal as soon
as equipment is available; (5) after July 1, 1997, the two-tone signal
may be used only as an audio alert signal to announce to the public
either the monthly test or actual emergency messages; and (6) Class D
FM and low power television stations must have decoders according to
the timetable used by broadcasters. There will be a one year overlap
between the old EBS and new EAS equipment to ensure that the new system
is effective before the older EBS two-tone signalling technique used to
alert stations is retired. Because cable is a new entrant, cable
systems will have until July 1, 1997, to install the new equipment.
The following is a summary of other features of the Emergency Alert
System.
EAS will utilize a standard, non-proprietary protocol that
includes a digital header code, the Attention Signal, the emergency
message, and an End Of Message (EOM) code.
It will be permissible to transmit only the header and EOM
coded for state and local emergencies.
The protocol can be received by any radio or television
receiver.
The protocol can be sent on transmission systems such as,
but not limited to, radio and television stations, cable systems,
satellite, computer networks, and paging systems.
The new equipment may combine decoder and encoder
functions in a single unit.
The equipment can be controlled from a remote location.
Broadcast station and cable system owners can program the
equipment to interrupt their programming in the event of specific codes
contained in EAS messages. Codes can, for example, be matched for the
message Originator (who), Event (what) and Location (where).
All EAS messages will have Universal Coordinated Time
(UTC) codes to assure that expired messages are not transmitted.
Specially equipped radios, televisions and other consumer
products can be turned on and off by the EAS protocol to receive
emergency messages.
The existing State and Local Emergency Communications
Committees can create their own monthly test announcements.
EAS state and local plans will need to be created to
reflect the new capabilities of equipment for multiple monitoring and
identification of EAS sources.
The rules prohibit false use of the EAS protocol.
The rules employ new and more easily understandable
terminology for use by EAS participants.
In the same document as the Report and Order, the Commission issued
a Further Notice of Proposed Rulemaking asking for comments related to
whether the Multipoint Distribution Service (MDS), Satellite Master
Antenna TV (SMATV) systems and Video Dial Tone should also be required
to participate in EAS. Comments were also sought on several cable
related issues. This Further Notice of Proposed Rulemaking is
summarized elsewhere in the Federal Register.
The Regulatory Flexibility Analysis
Pursuant to the Regulatory Flexibility Act of 1980, 5 U.S.C.
Section 603, the Report and Order contained a final regulatory
flexibility analysis. The analysis concluded that the new EAS will be a
significant improvement over EBS in providing emergency messages to the
public. There were no comments submitted in response to the initial
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis.
Legal Basis
The Report and Order is issued under authority contained in
Sections 1, 4 (i) and (o), 303(r), 624(g) and 706 of the Communications
Act of 1934, as amended. 47 U.S.C. Sections 151, 154 (i) and (o),
303(r), 544(g) and 606.
List of Subjects
47 CFR Part 0
Delegation of authority, Organization and functions (Government
agencies)
47 CFR Part 11
Emergency alert system
47 CFR Part 73
Radio broadcasting, Television broadcasting
47 CFR Part 76
Cable television
Federal Communications Commission.
William F. Caton,
Acting Secretary.
Rule Changes
Parts 0, 11, 73 and 76 of Chapter I of Title 47 of the Code of
Federal Regulations are amended as follows:
PART 0--COMMISSION ORGANIZATION
1. The authority citation for Part 0 continues to read as follows:
Authority: Secs. 5, 48 Stat. 1068, as amended; 47 U.S.C. 155.
2. Section 0.182 is amended by revising the heading and paragraph
(d) to read as follows:
Sec. 0.182 Chief, Compliance and Information Bureau.
* * * * *
(d) Provides administrative support for the National Advisory
Committee (NAC).
* * * * *
3. Section 0.183 is revised to read as follows:
Sec. 0.183 Emergency Communications Administration.
The Compliance and Information Bureau coordinates the National
Security and Emergency Preparedness (NSEP) activities of the Federal
Communications Commission including Continuity of Government Planning,
the Emergency Alert System (EAS) and other functions as may be
delegated during a national emergency or activation of the President's
war emergency powers as specified in section 706 of the Communications
Act; maintains liaison with FCC Bureaus/Offices, and other government
agencies, the telecommunications industry and FCC licensees on NSEP
matters; and, as requested, represents the Commission at NSEP meetings
and conferences.
Sec. 0.284 [Amended]
4. Section 0.284 is amended by removing paragraph (a)(4) and
redesignating paragraphs (a)(5) through (a)(10) as (a)(4) through
(a)(9), respectively.
5. Section 0.311 is amended by revising paragraphs (g) and (h) to
read as follows:
Sec. 0.311 Authority delegated.
* * * * *
(g) The Chief, Compliance and Information Bureau is delegated
authority to grant waivers of the requirements of Part 11 of this
Chapter to participants required to install, operate or test Emergency
Alert System (EAS) equipment. The Chief, Compliance and Information
Bureau is further authorized to delegate this authority. Waiver
requests must made in writing and forwarded to the FCC's EAS office
1919 M Street, NW Washington, DC 20054. Such requests must state the
reason why the waiver is necessary and provide sufficient information
such as, statements of fact regarding the financial status of the
broadcast station, the number of other broadcast stations providing
coverage in its service area or the likelihood of hazardous risks to
justify a grant of the waiver.
(h) The Chief, Compliance and Information Bureau is delegated
authority to execute in the name of the Commission all agreements
pertaining to the loan of United States Government property to
broadcast stations or other entities participating in the Emergency
Alert System (EAS) for national defense purposes. The Chief, Compliance
and Information Bureau is authorized to delegate this authority.
PART 11--EMERGENCY ALERT SYSTEM (EAS)
6. A new Part 11 is added to read as follows:
Part 11--[Added]
Subpart A--General
Sec.
11.1 Purpose.
11.11 The Emergency Alert System (EAS).
11.12 Two-tone Attention Signal Encoder and Decoder.
11.13 Emergency Action Notification (EAN) and Emergency Action
Termination (EAT).
11.14 EAN Network and Primary Entry Point (PEP) System.
11.15 EAS Operating Handbook.
11.16 National Control Point Procedures.
11.17 Authenticator Word Lists.
11.18 EAS Designations.
11.19 EAS Non-participating National Authorization Letter.
11.20 State Relay Network.
11.21 State and Local Area Plans and FCC Mapbook.
Subpart B--Equipment Requirements
11.31 EAS protocol.
11.32 EAS Encoder.
11.33 EAS Decoder.
11.34 Acceptability of the equipment.
11.35 Equipment operational readiness.
Subpart C--Organization
11.41 Participation in EAS.
11.42 Participation by communications common carriers.
11.43 National level participation.
11.44 EAS message priorities.
11.45 Prohibition of false or deceptive EAS transmissions.
11.46 EAS public service announcements.
Subpart D--Emergency Operations
11.51 EAS code and Attention Signal Transmission requirements.
11.52 EAS code and Attention Signal Monitoring requirements.
11.53 Dissemination of Emergency Action Notification.
11.54 EAS operation during a National Level emergency.
11.55 EAS operation during a State or Local Area emergency.
Subpart E--Tests
11.61 Tests of EAS procedures.
11.62 Closed Circuit Tests of National Level EAS facilities.
Authority: 47 U.S.C. 151, 154 (i) and (o), 303(r), 544(g) and
606.
Subpart A--General
Sec. 11.1 Purpose.
This part contains rules and regulations providing for an Emergency
Alert System (EAS). The EAS provides the President with the capability
to provide immediate communications and information to the general
public at the National, State and Local Area levels during periods of
national emergency. The rules in this part describe the required
technical standards and operational procedures of the EAS for AM, FM
and TV broadcast stations, cable systems and other participating
entities. The EAS may be used to provide the heads of State and local
government, or their designated representatives, with a means of
emergency communication with the public in their State or Local Area.
Sec. 11.11 The Emergency Alert System (EAS).
(a) The EAS is composed of broadcast networks; cable networks and
program suppliers; AM, FM and TV broadcast stations; Low Power TV
(LPTV) stations; cable systems; and other entities and industries
operating on an organized basis during emergencies at the National,
State, or local levels. It requires that at a minimum all participants
use a common EAS protocol, as defined in Sec. 11.31, to send and
receive emergency alerts in accordance with the effective dates in the
following tables:
Timetable--Broadcast Stations
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Requirement Until 7/1/95 7/1/95 7/1/96 7/1/97
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Two-tone encoder 20-25 seconds........ 8-25 seconds......... 8-25 seconds......... 8-25 seconds.\1\
timing.
Two-tone decoder 8-16 seconds required All decoders at 3-4 3-4 seconds.......... Two-tone decoder no
timing. 3-4 seconds optional. seconds. longer used.
Digital decoder and Use is optional...... Use is optional...... Use is required...... Use is required.
encoder.
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\1\Two-tone signal used only to provide audio alert to audience before EAS emergency messages and required
monthly test.
Cable Systems
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Requirement Until 7/1/97 7/1/97\2\
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Two-tone signal from Use is optional, 8-25 Use is required, 8-25
storage device\1\. seconds. seconds.
Digital decoder and Use is optional........ Use is required.\2\
encoder.
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\1\Two-tone signal used only to provide audio alert to audience before
EAS emergency messages and required monthly test.
\2\On this date, subject cable systems shall provide: (1) a video
message on all channels or other alerting techniques to hearing
impaired and deaf subscribers, (2) an audio message and video
interruption on all channels, and (3) a video message on at least one
channel to all subscribers.
Note: Class D FM and low power TV stations are not required to have two-
tone or digital encoders. LPTV stations that operate as television
broadcast translator stations are exempt from the requirement to have
EAS equipment.
EAS Timetable and Requirements
------------------------------------------------------------------------
FM class
Requirement AM FM D TV LPTV\1\
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Broadcast stations
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Two-tone
decoder
(until 7/1/
97)......... Y Y Y Y Y
Two-tone
encoder..... Y Y N Y N
Digital
decoder (7/1/
96)......... Y Y Y Y Y
Digital
encoder (7/1/
96)......... Y Y N Y N
Audio message
(7/1/96).... Y Y Y Y Y
Video message
(7/1/96).... ......... ......... ......... Y Y
------------------------------------------------------------------------
\1\LPTV stations that operate as television broadcast translator
stations are exempt from the requirement to have EAS equipment.
Cable Systems
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Requirement
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Two-tone decoder............................................ N
Two-tone encoder............................................ N
Digital decoder (7/1/97).................................... Y
Digital encoder (7/1/97).................................... Y
Audio message on all channels (7/1/97)...................... Y\2\
Video interruption on all channels, video message on one
channel (7/1/97)........................................... Y\3\
------------------------------------------------------------------------
\2\Shall transmit two-tone signal, but it may be from a storage device.
\3\Shall provide video on all channels or other alerting techniques to
certified hearing impaired and deaf subscribers.
(b) Class D non-commercial educational FM stations as defined in
Sec. 73.506 of this chapter and LPTV stations as defined in
Sec. 74.701(f) of this chapter are not required to comply with
Sec. 11.32. LPTV stations that operate as television broadcast
translator stations, as defined in Sec. 74.701(b) of this chapter are
not required to comply with the requirements of this part.
(c) Organizations using other communications systems or
technologies such as, Direct Broadcast Satellite (DBS), low earth orbit
satellite systems, paging, computer networks, etc. may join the EAS on
a voluntary basis by contacting the FCC. Organizations that choose to
voluntarily participate must comply with the requirements of this part.
Sec. 11.12 Two-tone Attention Signal Encoder and Decoder.
Existing two-tone Attention Signal Encoder and Decoder equipment
type accepted for use as Emergency Broadcast System equipment under
Part 73 may be used by broadcast stations until July 1, 1997, provided
that such equipment meets the requirements of Secs. 11.32(a)(9) and
11.33(b). Effective July 1, 1997, the two-tone Attention Signal Decoder
will no longer be required and the two-tone Attention Signal will be
used to provide an audio alert.
Sec. 11.13 Emergency Action Notification (EAN) and Emergency Action
Termination (EAT).
(a) The Emergency Action Notification (EAN) is the notice to all
broadcast stations, subject cable systems, other regulated services of
the FCC, participating industry entities, and to the general public
that the EAS has been activated for a national emergency.
(b) The Emergency Action Termination (EAT) is the notice to all
broadcast stations, subject cable systems, other regulated services of
the FCC, participating industry entities, and to the general public
that the EAN has terminated.
Sec. 11.14 EAN Network and Primary Entry Point (PEP) System.
(a) The EAN network is a dedicated communications service
connecting industry networks, wire services and common carriers with
government activation points. It is used to distribute EAN and EAT
messages. The industry control locations retransmit the EAN message,
the Presidential message, and the EAT message on their facilities to
their affiliates.
(b) The PEP system is a nationwide network of broadcast stations
connected with government activation points. It can also be used to
distribute EAN and EAT.
Sec. 11.15 EAS Operating Handbook.
The EAS Operating Handbook states in summary form the actions to be
taken by personnel at broadcast stations, and other participating
entities upon receipt of an EAN, subject cable systems and other
participating entities upon receipt of an EAN, an EAT, tests, or State
and Local Area alerts. It is issued by the FCC and contains
instructions for the above situations, monitoring guidelines, and EAS
message examples. A copy of the Handbook must be located at normal duty
positions or EAS equipment locations when an operator is required to be
on duty and be immediately available to staff responsible for
authenticating messages and initiating actions.
Sec. 11.16 National Control Point Procedures.
The National Control Point Procedures are written instructions
issued by the FCC to national level EAS control points. They are for
use by the participating radio and television networks, cable networks
and program suppliers, common carriers and wire services. The
procedures are divided into sections as follows:
(a) National Level EAS Activation. This section contains the
activation and termination instructions for Presidential messages.
(b) EAS Test Transmissions. This section contains the instructions
for testing the EAS at the National level.
(c) National Information Center (NIC). This section contains
instructions for distributing United States Government official
information messages after completion of the National Level EAS
activation and termination actions.
Sec. 11.17 Authenticator Word Lists.
There are three lists issued by the FCC annually. The lists are to
be used by EAS participants to ensure that the National level alerts
and tests are legitimate. The lists must be used in accordance with
directions in the EAS Operating Handbook and the National Control Point
Procedures. LPTV stations do not receive authenticator lists.
(a) Red Envelope Authenticator List. This list is used for
authentication purposes in accordance with instructions in the EAS
Operating Handbook and National Control Point Procedures. It is issued
to all broadcast stations and specified control points of the radio and
television networks, cable networks and program suppliers, common
carriers, wire services and other specified entities. A current copy of
this list must be located in the pocket on the inside front cover of
the EAS Operating Handbook. This list should be opened only to
authenticate receipt of an EAN message and an EAT message from the
above control pints. The FCC may request immediate return of the Red
Envelope at any time.
(b) White Envelope Authenticator List. This list is used for caller
identification purposes in accordance with instructions in the National
Control Point Procedures. It is issued only to specified control
points.
(c) NIC Authenticator List. This booklet is used for authentication
purposes in accordance with instructions in the National Control Point
Procedures. It is issued only to participating control points.
Sec. 11.18 EAS Designations.
(a) National Primary (NP) is a source of EAS Presidential messages.
(b) Local Primary (LP) is a source of EAS Local Area messages. An
LP source is responsible for coordinating the carriage of common
emergency messages from sources such as the National Weather Service or
local emergency management offices as specified in its EAS Local Area
Plan. If it is unable to carry out this function, other LP sources in
the Local Area may be assigned the responsibility as indicated in State
and Local Area Plans. LP sources are assigned numbers (LP-1, 2, 3,
etc.) in the sequence they are to be monitored by other broadcast
stations in the Local Area.
(c) State Primary (SP) is a source of EAS State messages. These
messages can originate from the Governor or a designated representative
in the State Emergency Operating Center (EOC) or State Capital.
Messages are sent via the State Relay Network.
(d) State Relay (SR) is a source of EAS State messages. It is part
of the State Relay Network and relays National and State common
emergency messages into Local Areas.
(e) Participating National (PN) sources transmit EAS National,
State or Local Area messages. The EAS transmissions of PN sources are
intended for direct public reception.
(f) Non-participating National (NN) sources have elected not to
participate in the National level EAS and hold an authorization letter
to that effect. Upon activation of the national level EAS, NN sources
are required to broadcast the EAS codes, Attention Signal, the sign-off
announcement in the EAS Operating Handbook and then stop operating. All
NN sources are required to comply with Sec. 11.51, Sec. 11.52 and
Sec. 11.61. They may transmit EAS State or Local Area messages at any
time without prior notice.
Sec. 11.19 EAS Non-participating National Authorization Letter.
This authorization letter is issued by the FCC to broadcast station
licensees. It states that the licensee has agreed to go off the air
during a national level EAS message. This authorization will remain in
effect through the period of the initial license and subsequent
renewals from the time of issuance unless returned by the holder or
suspended, modified or withdrawn by the Commission.
Sec. 11.20 State Relay Network.
This network is composed of State Relay (SR) sources, leased common
carrier communications facilities or any other available communication
facilities. The network distributes State EAS messages originated by
the Governor or designated official. In addition to EAS monitoring,
satellites, microwave, FM subcarrier or any other communications
technology may be used to distribute State emergency messages.
Sec. 11.21 State and Local Area Plans and FCC Mapbook.
EAS plans contain guidance for broadcast personnel, emergency
officials and NWS personnel to activate the EAS. The plans include the
EAS header codes and messages that will be transmitted by key EAS
sources (NP, LP, SP and SR).
(a) The State plan contains procedures for State emergency
management and other State officials, the NWS, broadcast personnel to
transmit emergency information to the public during a State emergency
using the EAS.
(b) The Local Area plan contains procedures for local officials or
the NWS to transmit emergency information to the public during a local
emergency using the EAS. Local plans may be a part of the State plan. A
Local Area is a geographical area of contiguous communities or counties
that may include more than one state.
(c) The FCC Mapbook is based on the above plans. It organizes all
broadcast stations and cable systems according to their State, EAS
Local Area and EAS designation.
Subpart B--Equipment Requirements
Sec. 11.31 EAS protocol.
(a) The EAS uses a four part message for an emergency activation of
the EAS. The four parts are: Preamble and EAS Header Codes; audio
Attention Signal; message; and, Preamble and EAS End Of Message (EOM)
Codes.
(1) The Preamble and EAS Codes must use Audio Frequency Shift
Keying at a rate of 520.83 bits per second to transmit the codes. Mark
frequency is 2083.3 Hz and space frequency is 1562.5 Hz. Mark and space
time must be 1.92 milliseconds. Characters are ASCII seven bit
characters as defined in ANSI X3.4-1977.
(2) The Attention Signal must be made up of the fundamental
frequencies of 853 and 960 Hz. The two tones must be transmitted
simultaneously. The Attention Signal must be transmitted after the EAS
header codes.
(3) The message may be audio, video or text.
(b) The ASCII dash and plus symbols are required and may not be
used for any other purpose. Unused characters must be ASCII space
characters. FM or TV call signs must use a backslash ASCII character (/
) in lieu of a dash.
(c) The EAS protocol, including any codes, must not be amended,
extended or abridged without FCC authorization. The EAS protocol and
message format are specified in the following representation. Examples
are also provided in the EAS Operating Handbook.
[PREAMBLE] ZCZC-ORG-EEE-PSSCCC+TTTT+JJJHHMM-LLLLLLLL-
(one second pause)
[PREAMBLE] ZCZC-ORG-EEE-PSSCCC+TTTT-JJJHHMM-LLLLLLLL-
(one second pause)
[PREAMBLE] ZCZC-ORG-EEE-PSSCCC+TTTT-JJJHHMM-LLLLLLLL-
(at least a one second pause)
(transmission of 8 to 25 seconds of Attention Signal)
(transmission of audio, video or text messages)
(at least a one second pause)
[PREAMBLE] NNNN
(one second pause)
[PREAMBLE] NNNN
(one second pause)
[PREAMBLE] NNNN
(at least one second pause)
[PREAMBLE] This is a consecutive string of bits (sixteen bytes of
AB hexadecimal [8 bit byte 10101011]) sent to clear the system, set
AGC and set asynchronous decoder clocking cycles. The preamble must
be transmitted before each header and End Of Message code.
ZCZC- This is the identifier, sent as ASCII characters ZCZC to
indicate the start of ASCII code.
ORG- This is the Originator code and indicates who originally
initiated the activation of the EAS. These codes are specified in
paragraph (d) of this section.
EEE- This is the Event code and indicates the nature of the EAS
activation. The codes are specified in paragraph (e) of this
section. The Event codes must be compatible with the codes used by
the NWS Weather Radio Specific Area Message Encoder (WRSAME).
PSSCCC- This is the Location code and indicates the geographic area
affected by the EAS alert. There may be 31 Location codes in an EAS
alert. There may be 31 Location codes in an EAS alert. The Location
code uses the Federal Information Processing System (FIPS) numbers
as described by the U.S. Department of Commerce in National
Institute of Standards and Technology publication 772. Each state is
assigned an SS number as specified in paragraph (f) of this section.
Each county is assigned a CCC number. A CCC number of 000 refers to
an entire State or Territory. P defines county subdivisions as
follows: 0=all or an unspecified portion of a county, 1=Northwest,
2=North Central, 3=Northeast, 4=West Central, 5=Central, 6=East
Central, 7=Southwest, 8=South Central, 9=Southeast. Other numbers
may be designated later for special applications. The use of county
subdivisions will probably be rare and generally for oddly shaped or
unusually large counties. Any subdivisions must be defined and
agreed to by the local officials prior to use.
+TTTT- This indicates the valid time period of a message in 15
minute segments up to one hour and then in 30 minute segments beyond
one hour; i.e., +0015, +0030, +0045, +100, +0430 and +0600.
JJJHHMM- This is the day in Julian Calendar days (JJJ) of the year
and the time in hours and minutes (HHMM) when the message was
initially released by the originator using 24 hour Universal
Coordinated Time (UTC). These codes must remain unchanged for
retransmitted messages.
LLLLLLLL- This is the call sign or other identification of the
broadcast station, or NWS office transmitting or retransmitting the
message. These codes will be automatically affixed to all outgoing
messages by the EAS encoder.
NNNN- This is the End of Message (EOM) code sent as a string of
four ASCII N characters.
(d) The only originator codes are:
------------------------------------------------------------------------
ORG
Originator code
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Broadcast station or cable system............................... EAS
Civil authorities............................................... CIV
Emergency Action Notification Network........................... EAN
National Weather Service........................................ WXR
Primary Entry Point System...................................... PEP
------------------------------------------------------------------------
(e) The following Event (EEE) codes are presently authorized:
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Event
Nature of activation codes
------------------------------------------------------------------------
National Codes:
Emergency Action Notification (National only)................. EAN
Emergency Action Termination (National only).................. EAT
National Information Center................................... NIC
National Periodic Test........................................ NPT
Required Monthly Test......................................... RMT
Required Weekly Test.......................................... RWT
Local Codes:
Administrative Message...................................... ADR
Blizzard Warning............................................ BZW
Civil Emergency Message..................................... CEM
Evacuation Immediate........................................ EVI
Flash Flood Statement....................................... FFS
Flash Flood Warning......................................... FFW
Flash Food Watch............................................ FFA
Flood Statement............................................. FLS
Flood Warning............................................... FLW
Flood Watch................................................. FLA
High Wind Warning........................................... HWW
High Wind Watch............................................. HWA
Hurricane Statement......................................... HLS
Hurricane Warning........................................... HUW
Hurricane Watch............................................. HUA
Practice/Demo Warning....................................... DMO
Severe Thunderstorm Warning................................... SVR
Severe Thunderstorm Watch..................................... SVA
Severe Weather Statement...................................... SVS
Special Weather Statement..................................... SPS
Tornado Warning............................................... TOR
Tornado Watch................................................. TOA
Tsunami Warning............................................... TSW
Tsunami Watch................................................. TSA
Winter Storm Warning.......................................... WSW
Winter Storm Watch............................................ WSA
------------------------------------------------------------------------
(f) The State and Territory FIPS number codes (SS) are as follows.
County FIPS numbers (CCC) are contained in the State EAS Mapbook.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
State FIPS #
------------------------------------------------------------------------
AL............................................................ 01
AK............................................................ 02
AZ............................................................ 04
AR............................................................ 05
CA............................................................ 06
CO............................................................ 08
CT............................................................ 09
DE............................................................ 10
FL............................................................ 12
GA............................................................ 13
HI............................................................ 15
ID............................................................ 16
IL............................................................ 17
IN............................................................ 18
IA............................................................ 19
KS............................................................ 20
KY............................................................ 21
LA............................................................ 22
ME............................................................ 23
MD............................................................ 24
MA............................................................ 25
MI............................................................ 26
MN............................................................ 27
MS............................................................ 28
MO............................................................ 29
MT............................................................ 30
NE............................................................ 31
NV............................................................ 32
NH............................................................ 33
NJ............................................................ 34
NM............................................................ 35
NY............................................................ 36
NC............................................................ 37
ND............................................................ 38
OH............................................................ 39
OK............................................................ 40
OR............................................................ 41
PA............................................................ 42
RI............................................................ 44
SC............................................................ 45
SD............................................................ 46
TN............................................................ 47
TX............................................................ 48
UT............................................................ 49
VT............................................................ 50
VA............................................................ 51
WA............................................................ 53
WV............................................................ 54
WI............................................................ 55
WY............................................................ 56
------------------------------------------------------------------------
District of Columbia--11
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Terr. FIPS #
------------------------------------------------------------------------
AS............................................................ 60
PR............................................................ 72
FM............................................................ 64
PW............................................................ 70
GU............................................................ 66
UM............................................................ 74
MH............................................................ 68
VI............................................................ 78
MP............................................................ 69
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Sec. 11.32 EAS Encoder.
(a) EAS Encoders must at a minimum be capable of encoding the EAS
protocol described in Sec. 11.31 and providing the EAS code
transmission requirements described in Sec. 11.51. EAS encoders must
additionally provide the following minimum specifications:
(1) Encoder programming. Access to encoder programming shall be
protected by a lock or other security measures and be configured so
that authorized personnel can readily select and program the EAS
Encoder with Originator, Event and Location codes for either manual or
automatic operation.
(2) Inputs. The encoder shall have two inputs, one for audio
messages and one for data messages (RS-232C with standard protocol and
1200 baud rate).
(3) Outputs. The encoder shall have two outputs, one audio port and
one data port (RS-232C with standard protocol and 1200 baud rate).
(4) Calibration. EAS Encoders must provide a means to comply with
the modulation levels required in Sec. 11.51(f).
(5) Day-Hour-Minute and Identification Stamps. The encoder shall
affix the JJJHHMM and LLLLLLLL codes automatically to all initial
messages.
(6) Program Data Retention. Program data and codes shall be
retained even with the power removed.
(7) Indicator. An aural or visible means that it activated when the
Preamble is sent and deactivated at the End of Message code.
(8) Spurious Response. All frequency components outside 200 to 4000
Hz shall be attenuated by 40 dB or more with respect to the output
levels of the mark or space frequencies.
(9) Attention Signal generator. The encoder must provide an
attention signal that complies with the following:
(i) Tone Frequencies. The audio tones shall have fundamental
frequencies of 853 and 960 Hz and not vary over 0.5 Hz.
(ii) Harmonic Distortion. The total harmonic distortion of each of
the audio tones may not exceed 5% at the encoder output terminals.
(iii) Minimum Level of Output. The encoder shall have an output
level capability of at least +8 dBm into a 600 Ohm load impedance at
each audio tone. A means shall be provided to permit individual
activation of the two tones for calibration of associated systems.
(iv) Time Period for Transmission of Tones. The encoder shall have
timing circuitry that automatically generates the two tones
simultaneously for a time period of not less than 8 nor longer than 25
seconds. NOTE: Prior to July 1, 1995, the Attention Signal must be at
least 20 and not more than 25 seconds.
(v) Inadvertent activation. The switch used for initiating the
automatic generation of the simultaneous tones shall be protected to
prevent accidental operation.
(vi) Indicator Display. The encoder shall be provided with a visual
and/or aural indicator which clearly shows that the Attention Signal is
activated.
(b) Operating Temperature and Humidity. Encoders shall have the
ability to operate with the above specifications within an ambient
temperature range of 0 to +50 degrees C and a range of relative
humidity of up to 95%.
(c) Primary Supply Voltage Variation. Encoders shall be capable of
complying with the requirements of this section during a variation in
primary supply voltage of 85 percent to 115 percent of its rated value.
(d) Testing Encoder Units. Encoders not covered by Sec. 11.34(e) of
this part shall be tested in a 10 V/m minimum RF field at an AM
broadcast frequency and a 0.5 V/m minimum RF field at an FM or TV
broadcast frequency to simulate actual working conditions.
Sec. 11.33 EAS Decoder.
(a) An EAS Decoder must at a minimum be capable of decoding the EAS
protocol described in Sec. 11.31, provide the EAS monitoring functions
described in Sec. 11.52, and the following minimum specifications:
(1) Inputs. Decoders must have the capability to receive at least 2
audio inputs from EAS monitoring assignments, and one data input (RS-
232C with standard protocol and 1200 baud rate). The data input may be
used to monitor other communications modes such as Radio Broadcast Data
System (RBDS), NWR, satellite, public switched telephone network, or
any other source that uses the EAS protocol.
(2) Valid codes. There must be a means to determine if valid EAS
header codes are received and to determine if preselected header codes
are received.
(3) Storage. Decoders must provide the means to:
(i) Record and store at least two minutes of audio or text
messages.
(ii) Store at least 10 preselected header codes for comparison with
incoming header codes. A non-preselected header code that is manually
transmitted must be stored for comparison with later incoming header
codes. The header codes of the last ten received valid messages which
still have valid time periods must be stored for comparison with the
incoming valid header codes of later messages. The header codes will be
deleted from storage as their valid time periods expire.
(4) Display. A visual message shall be developed from any valid EAS
header codes received. The message will include the Originator, Event,
Location, the valid time period of the message and the local time the
message was transmitted. The message shall be in the primary language
of the broadcast station or cable system and be fully displayed on the
decoder and readable in normal light and darkness.
(5) Indicators. EAS Decoders must have a distinct aural or visible
means to show that it is activated when:
(i) any valid EAS header codes are received as specified in
Sec. 11.33(a)(10).
(ii) preprogrammed header codes, such as those selected in
accordance with Sec. 11.52(d) are received.
(iii) a signal is present at each audio input that is specified in
Sec. 11.33(a)(1).
(6) Program Data Retention. The program data must be retained even
with power removed.
(7) Outputs. Decoders shall have the following outputs: a data port
or ports (RS-232C with standard protocol and 1200 baud rate) where
received valid EAS header codes and received preselected header codes
are available; one audio port that is capable of monitoring each
decoder audio input; and, an internal speaker to enable personnel to
hear audio from each input.
(8) Decoder Programming. Access to decoder programming shall be
protected by a lock or other security measures and be configured so
that authorized personnel can readily select and program the EAS
Decoder with preselected Originator, Event and Location codes for
either manual or automatic operation.
(9) Reset. There shall be a method to automatically or manually
reset the decoder to the normal monitoring condition. If an end of
message code (EOM) is not received for an EAS message, operators shall
be able to select an automatic reset time which may not be less than
two minutes. Messages received with the EAN Event codes shall disable
the reset function so that lengthy audio messages can be handled. The
last message received with valid header codes shall be displayed as
required by Sec. 11.33(a)(4) of this section before the decoder is
reset.
(10) Message Validity. An EAS Decoder must provide error detection
and validation of the header codes of each message to ascertain if the
message is valid. Header code comparisons may be accomplished through
the use of a bit-by-bit compare or any other error detection and
validation protocol. A header code must only be considered valid when
two of the three headers match exactly. Duplicate messages must not be
relayed automatically.
(11) A header code with the EAN Event code specified in
Sec. 11.31(c) that is received through either of the two audio inputs
must override all other EAS messages.
(b) Attention Signal. EAS Decoders at broadcast stations shall have
detection and activation circuitry that will demute a receiver upon
detection of the two audio tones of 853 Hz and 960 Hz. To prevent false
responses, decoders designed to use the two tones for broadcast
receiver demuting shall comply with the following:
(1) Time Delay. A minimum time delay of 8 but not more than 16
seconds of tone reception shall be incorporated into the demuting or
activation process to insure that the tones will be audible for a
period of at least 4 seconds. After July 1, 1995, the time delay shall
be 3-4 seconds.
(2) Operation Bandwidth. The decoder circuitry shall not respond to
tones which vary more than 0.5 Hz from each of the
frequencies, 853 Hz and 960 Hz.
(3) Reset Ability. The decoder shall have a means to manually or
automatically reset the associated broadcast receiver to a muted state.
(c) Decoders shall be capable of operation within the tolerances
specified in this section as well as those in Secs. 11.32(b), (c) and
(d).
Sec. 11.34 Acceptability of the equipment.
(a) An EAS Encoder used for generating the EAS codes and the
Attention Signal must be Certified in accordance with the procedures in
Part 2, Subpart J, of this chapter. The data and information submitted
must show the capability of the equipment to meet the requirements of
this Part as well as the requirements contained in Part 15 of this
chapter for digital devices.
(b) Decoders used for the detection of the EAS codes and receiving
the Attention Signal must be Certified in accordance with the
procedures in Part 2, Subpart J, of this chapter. The data and
information submitted must show the capability of the equipment to meet
the requirements of this Part as well as the requirements contained in
Part 15 of this chapter for digital devices.
(c) The functions of the EAS decoder, Attention Signal generator
and receiver, and the EAS Encoder specified in Secs. 11.31, 11.32 and
11.33 may be combined and notified as a single unit provided that the
unit complies with all specifications in this rule section.
(d) Manufacturers must include instructions and information on how
to install, operate and program an EAS Encoder, EAS Decoder, or
combined unit and a list of all State and county FIPS numbers with each
unit sold or marketed in the U.S.
(e) Waiver requests of the Certification requirements for EAS
Encoders or EAS Decoders which are constructed for use at a broadcast
station or subject cable system, but are not offered for sale will be
considered on an individual basis in accordance with Part 1, Subpart G,
of this chapter.
Sec. 11.35 Equipment operational readiness.
(a) Broadcast stations and subject cable systems are responsible
for ensuring that EAS Encoders, EAS Decoders and Attention Signal
generating and receiving equipment used as part of the EAS is installed
so that the monitoring and transmitting functions are available during
the times the broadcast station or cable system is in operation.
Additionally, broadcast stations and subject cable systems must
determine the cause of any failure to receive the required tests or
activations specified in Secs. 11.61(a) (1) and (2). Appropriate
entries must be made in the broadcast station log as specified in
Sec. 73.1820 and Sec. 73.1840 of this chapter, cable system record in
Sec. 76.305 of this chapter indicating reasons why any tests were not
received.
(b) If the EAS Encoder or EAS Decoder becomes defective the
broadcast station or subject cable system may operate without the
defective equipment pending its repair or replacement for a period not
in excess of 60 days without further FCC authority. Entries shall be
made in the broadcast station log or subject cable system records
showing the date and time the equipment was removed and restored to
service. For personnel training purposes, the required monthly test
script must still be transmitted even though the equipment for
generating the EAS message codes, Attention Signal and EOM code is not
functioning.
(c) An informal request may be made to the Engineer-in-charge of
the FCC field office serving area in which the broadcast station or
subject cable system is located for additional time to complete repairs
to the defective equipment. These requests must explain what steps have
been taken to repair or replace the defective equipment, the
alternative procedures being used while the defective equipment is out
of service, and when the defective equipment will be repaired or
replaced.
Subpart C--Organization
Sec. 11.41 Participation in EAS.
(a) All broadcast stations and cable systems specified in
Sec. 11.11 are categorized as Participating National (PN) sources
unless authorized by the FCC to be Non-Participating National (NN)
sources.
(b) A broadcast station or cable system may submit a written
request to the FCC asking to be a Non-Participating National (NN)
source. The FCC may then issue a Non-participating National
Authorization letter. NN sources must go off the air during a national
EAS activation.
(1) Any existing station that is a Non-participating National (NN)
source under Sec. 11.18(f) that wants to become a Participating
National (PN) source in the national level EAS must submit a written
request to the FCC.
(2) NN sources may voluntarily participate in the State and Local
Area EAS. Participation is at the discretion of broadcast station and
cable system management and will be in accordance with the provisions
of State and Local Area EAS Plans.
(c) All sources, including NN, must have immediate access to an EAS
Operating Handbook and a Red Envelope Authenticator List and be placed
on the EAS mailing list maintained by the FCC.
Sec. 11.42 Participation by communications common carriers.
(a) During activation of the National level EAS, communications
common carriers which have facilities available in place may, without
charge, connect:
(1) An originating source from the nearest service area to a
selected Test Center and then to the radio and television broadcast
networks, and cable networks and program suppliers for the duration of
the emergency, provided an Emergency Action Notification is issued by
the White House and the originating source has a local channel from the
originating point to the nearest service area.
(2) An independent broadcast station to the radio and television
broadcast networks, and cable networks and program suppliers provided
the station has in service a local channel from the station's studio or
transmitter directly to the broadcast source.
(b) Upon receipt of the Emergency Action Termination, the common
carriers shall disconnect the originating source and the participating
independent stations and restore the networks and program suppliers to
their original configurations.
(c) During a National level EAS Closed Circuit Test, common
carriers which have facilities in place may, without charge, connect an
originating source from the nearest service area to a selected Test
Center and then to the radio networks and, if participating, any
television networks and cable networks and program suppliers.
Independent stations will not be connected during the test unless
authorized by the FCC. Upon test termination, participants shall be
restored to their original configurations.
(d) A common carrier rendering free service shall file with the
FCC, on or before July 31st and January 31st of each year, reports
covering the six months ending on June 30th and December 31st
respectively. These reports shall state what free service was rendered
under this rule and the charges in dollars which would have accrued to
the carrier for this service if charges had been collected at the
published tariff rates if such carriers are required to file tariffs.
Sec. 11.43 National level participation.
The industry entities voluntarily participating in the national
level EAS are:
(a) Radio Networks.
(1) ABC.
(2) Associated Press (APR).
(3) CBS.
(4) CNN.
(5) Jones Satellite Audio.
(6) Moody Broadcasting Network.
(7) Mutual Broadcasting System (MBS).
(8) MUZAK.
(9) NBC.
(10) National Public (NPR).
(11) Unistar.
(12) United Press International (UPIR).
(13) USA.
(b) Television Networks.
(1) ABC.
(2) CBS.
(3) FOX.
(4) NBC.
(5) PBS.
(c) Cable Program Suppliers.
(1) Cable News Network (CNN) and CNN Headline News.
(2) Cinemax.
(3) Disney Channel.
(4) Entertainment and Sports Programming Network (ESPN).
(5) Home Box Office (HBO).
(6) Movie Channel.
(7) MTV.
(8) The Nashville Network.
(9) Nickelodeon.
(10) Showtime.
(11) VH-1.
(12) Weather Channel.
(d) Wire Services.
(1) Associated Press (AP).
(2) Reuters.
(3) United Press International (UPI).
(e) Common Carriers.
(1) American Telephone and Telegraph (AT&T).
(2) [Reserved]
(f) Entities that wish to voluntarily participate in the national
level EAS may submit a written request to the FCC.
Sec. 11.44 EAS message priorities.
(a) A national activation of the EAS for a Presidential message
with the Event code EAN as specified in Sec. 11.31 must take priority
over any other message and preempt it if it is in progress.
(b) EAS participants should transmit other EAS messages in the
following order: first, Local Area Messages; second, State Messages;
and third, National Information Center (NIC) Messages.
(c) Key EAS sources (NP, LP, SP and SR) and Participating National
(PN) sources that remain on the air during a National emergency must
carry Presidential Messages ``live'' at the time of transmission or
immediately upon receipt. Activation of the National level EAS must
preempt State and Local Area EAS operation.
(d) During a national emergency, the radio and television broadcast
network program distribution facilities must be reserved exclusively
for distribution of Presidential Messages. NIC messages received from
national networks which are not broadcast at the time of original
transmission must be recorded locally by LP sources for transmission at
the earliest opportunity consistent with the message priorities in
paragraph (b) of this section.
Sec. 11.45 Prohibition of false or deceptive EAS transmissions.
No person may transmit or cause to transmit the EAS codes or
Attention Signal, or a recording or simulation thereof, in any
circumstance other than in an actual National, State or Local Area
emergency or authorized test of the EAS. Broadcast station licensees
should also refer to Sec. 73.1217 of this chapter.
Sec. 11.46 EAS public service announcements.
Broadcast stations may use Public Service Announcements or obtain
commercial sponsors for announcements, informercials, or programs
explaining the EAS to the public. Such announcements and programs may
not be a part of alerts or tests, and may not simulate or attempt to
copy alert tones or codes.
Subpart D--Emergency Operations
Sec. 11.51 EAS code and Attention Signal Transmission requirements.
(a) Broadcast stations must transmit, either automatically or
manually, national level EAS messages and required tests by sending the
EAS header codes, Attention Signal, emergency message and End of
Message (EOM) using the EAS Protocol. The Attention Signal must precede
any emergency audio message. After July 1, 1997, the shortened
Attention Signal may only be used as an audio alert signal and the EAS
codes will become the minimum signalling requirement for National level
messages and tests.
(b) Broadcast stations may transmit only the EAS header codes and
the EOM code without the Attention Signal and emergency message for
State and local emergencies. Television stations and cable systems
should ensure that pauses in video programming before EAS message
transmission do not cause television receivers to mute EAS audio
messages.
(c) Effective July 1, 1996, all radio and television stations shall
transmit EAS messages in the main audio channel.
(d) By the above date, television stations shall transmit a visual
message containing the Originator, Event, Location and the valid time
period of an EAS message. If the message is a video crawl, it shall be
displayed at the top of the television screen or where it will not
interfere with other visual messages.
(e) Class D non-commercial educational FM stations as defined in
Sec. 73.506 of this chapter and low power TV stations as defined in
Sec. 74.701(f) of this chapter are not required to have equipment
capable of generating the EAS codes and Attention Signal specified in
Sec. 11.31.
(f) Broadcast stations may additionally transmit EAS messages
through other communications means other than the main audio channel.
For example, FM stations may transmit the EAS codes on subcarriers
including 57 kHz using the RBDS standard produced by the National Radio
Systems Committee (NRSC) and television stations may use subsidiary
communications services.
(g) Broadcast stations are responsible for ensuring that the
equipment for generating the EAS codes and the Attention Signal shall
modulate a broadcast station transmitter so that the signal broadcast
to other broadcast stations and cable systems alerts them that the EAS
is being activated or tested at the National, State or Local Area
level. The minimum level of modulation for EAS codes, measured at peak
modulation levels using the internal calibration output specified in
Sec. 11.32(a)(4) shall modulate the transmitter at no less than 80% of
full channel modulation limits. Measured at peak modulation levels,
each of the Attention Signal tones shall be calibrated separately to
modulate the transmitter at no less than 40%. These two calibrated
modulation levels shall have values that are within 1 dB of each other.
(h) Effective July 1, 1997, cable systems shall transmit EAS audio
messages in the same order specified in paragraph (a) of this section.
The Attention Signal may be produced from a storage device.
Additionally, subject cable systems must:
(1) Install, operate, and maintain equipment capable of generating
the EAS codes. The modulation levels for the EAS codes and Attention
Signal for cable systems shall comply with the aural signal
requirements in Sec. 76.605 of this chapter. This will provide
sufficient signal levels to operate cable subscriber television or
radio receivers equipped with EAS decoders and to audibly alert
subscribers.
(2) Provide a video interruption and an audio EAS message on all
channels. The audio message must state which channel is carrying the
visual EAS message.
(3) Subject cable systems shall transmit a visual EAS message on at
least one channel. The message shall contain the Originator, Event,
Location and the valid time period of the EAS message. If the visual
message is a video crawl, it shall be displayed at the top of the
subscriber's television screen or where it will not interfere with
other visual messages.
(4) Cable systems shall provide a method to alert hearing impaired
or deaf subscribers to EAS messages. Methods may include: a box that
displays EAS messages and activates other alerting mechanisms or
lights; visual messages on all channels; etc.
(5) Cable systems may elect not to interrupt EAS messages from
broadcast stations based on a written agreement between all concerned.
(i) Other technologies and public service providers, such as DBS,
low earth orbiting satellites, etc., that wish to participate in the
EAS may contact the FCC's EAS office or their State Emergency
Communication Committee for information and guidance.
(j) If manual interrupt is used as specified in paragraph (l) of
this section, EAS Encoders must be located so that station or cable
staff, at normal duty locations, can initiate the EAS code and
Attention Signal transmission.
(k) Broadcast stations or cable systems that are co-owned and co-
located with a combined studio or control facility (such as an AM and
FM licensed to the same entity and at the same location or a cable
headend serving more than one system) may provide the EAS transmitting
requirements contained in this section for the combined station or
cable system with one EAS Encoder. The requirements of Sec. 11.32 must
be met for both the broadcast station and cable system.
(l) Broadcast stations and cable systems are required to transmit
all received EAS messages in which the header code contains the Event
codes for Emergency Action Notification (EAN), Emergency Action
Termination (EAT), and Required Monthly Test (RMT), with the
accompanying location codes for their State and State/county. These EAS
messages shall be retransmitted unchanged except for the LLLLLLLL- code
which identifies the broadcast station or cable system retransmitting
the message. See Sec. 11.31(c). If an EAS source originates any EAS
messages with the above Event codes, it must include the location codes
for the State and counties in its service area. When transmitting the
required weekly test, broadcast stations and subject cable systems will
use the event code RWT. The location codes will be the state and county
for the broadcast station city of license or subject cable system
community. Other location codes may be included upon approval of
station or cable system management approval. EAS code requirements and
examples are provided in the EAS Operating Handbook. Operations may be
conducted automatically or manually.
(1) Automatic interrupt of programming and transmission of EAS
messages is required when facilities are unattended and must include a
permanent record that contains at a minimum the following information:
Originator, Event, Location and valid time period of the message. The
decoder performs the functions necessary to determine which EAS
messages are automatically transmitted by the encoder.
(2) Manual interrupt of programming and transmission of EAS
messages may be used. EAS messages with the EAN and EAT Event codes
must be transmitted immediately and Monthly EAS test messages within 15
minutes. All actions must be logged or recorded.
(m) Broadcast stations and cable systems may employ a minimum delay
feature, not to exceed 15 minutes, for automatic interrupt of EAS codes
but not for the EAN Event which must be transmitted immediately.
(n) Either manual or automatic operation of EAS equipment may be
used at broadcast stations or cable systems that use remote control. If
manual operation is used, an EAS decoder must be located at the remote
control location and directly monitor the signals of the two assigned
EAS sources. If direct monitoring of the assigned EAS sources is not
possible at the remote location, automatic operation is required. If
automatic operation is used, the remote control location may be used to
override the transmission of an EAS message. Broadcast stations and
cable systems may change back and forth between automatic and manual
operation.
Sec. 11.52 EAS code and Attention Signal Monitoring requirements
(a) Before July 1, 1997, broadcast stations must be capable of
receiving the Attention Signal required by Sec. 11.32(a)(9) and
emergency messages of other broadcast stations during their hours of
operation. Effective July 1, 1996, all broadcast stations must install
and operate during their hours of operation, equipment capable of
receiving and decoding, either automatically or manually, the EAS
header codes, emergency messages and EOM code. The effective date for
subject cable systems is July 1, 1997. NOTE: after July 1, 1997, the
two-tone Attention Signal will not be used to actuate two-tone decoders
but will be used as an aural alert signal.
(b) If manual interrupt is used as specified in Sec. 11.51(l)(2),
decoders must be located so that operators at their normal duty
stations at broadcast stations and cable systems can be alerted
immediately when EAS messages are received.
(c) Broadcast stations or cable systems that are co-owned and co-
located with a combined studio or control facility, (such as an AM and
FM licensed to the same entity and at the same location or a cable
headend serving more than one system) may provide the EAS monitoring
requirements contained in this section for the combined station or
cable system with one EAS Decoder. The requirements of Sec. 11.33 must
be met for the combined station or cable system.
(d) Broadcast stations and subject cable systems must monitor the
two EAS sources assigned in accordance with the monitoring priorities
in the EAS Operating Handbook. The off-air monitoring assignments of
each broadcast station and cable system are specified in the State EAS
Plan and FCC Mapbook.
(1) If the required EAS sources cannot be received, alternate
arrangements or a waiver may be obtained by written request to the
FCC's EAS office. In an emergency, a waiver may be issued over the
telephone with a follow up letter to confirm temporary or permanent
reassignment.
(2) Broadcast station and cable system management will determine
which header codes will automatically interrupt their programming for
State and Local Area emergency situations affecting their audiences.
(e) A broadcast station or cable system is required to interrupt
normal programming either automatically or manually when it receives an
EAS message in which the header code contains the Event codes for
Emergency Action Notification (EAN), Emergency Action Termination
(EAT), or Required Monthly Test (RMT) for its State or State/county
location.
(1) Automatic interrupt of programming is required when facilities
are unattended. Automatic operation must provide a permanent record of
the EAS message that contains at a minimum the following information:
Originator, Event, Location and valid time period of the message.
(2) Manual interrupt of programming and transmission of EAS
messages may be used. EAS messages with the EAN Event code must be
transmitted immediately and Monthly EAS test messages within 15
minutes. All actions must be logged or recorded. Decoders must be
programmed for the EAN and EAT Event header codes for EAS National
level emergencies and the RMT and RWT Event header codes for required
monthly and weekly tests, with the appropriate accompanying State and
State/county location codes.
Sec. 11.53 Dissemination of Emergency Action Notification.
Initiation of the EAN by any one of the following sources is
sufficient to begin the emergency actions in Sec. 11.54.
(a) National Level. The EAN is issued by the White House. The EAN
message is sent from an origination point to control points of the
participating radio and television networks, cable networks and program
suppliers, wire services, communications common carriers and other
entities. It is then disseminated via:
(1) Radio and television broadcast networks to all affiliates with
the use of internal alerting facilities.
(2) Cable networks and program suppliers to cable systems and
subscribers.
(3) Wire services to all subscribers (AM, FM, TV, LPTV and other
stations).
(4) Off-air monitoring of EAS sources.
(b) State level and Local Area levels. EAN dissemination
arrangements at these levels originate from State and local governments
in accordance with State and Local Area plans.
(c) Broadcast stations must, prior to commencing routine operation
or originating any emissions under program test, equipment test,
experimental, or other authorizations, determine whether the EAS has
been activated by any of the following methods:
(1) Monitor the radio and TV networks and cable systems.
(2) Check the wire services.
(3) Monitor the assigned EAS sources.
Sec. 11.54 EAS operation during a National Level emergency.
(a) The EAS Operating Handbook summarizes the procedures to be
followed upon receipt of a National level EAN or EAT Message.
(b) Immediately upon receipt of an EAN message, broadcast stations
and cable systems must:
(1) Monitor the radio and television networks, cable networks and
program suppliers, and wire services for further instructions.
(2) Verify the authenticity of the EAN message with the current Red
Envelope Authenticator List (broadcast stations only).
(3) Monitor the two EAS sources assigned in the State or Local Area
plan or FCC Mapbook for any further instructions.
(4) Discontinue normal programming and follow the transmission
procedures in the appropriate section of the EAS Operating Handbook.
Announcements may be made in the same language as the primary language
of the station.
(i) Key EAS sources (National Primary (NP), Local Primary (LP),
State Primary (SP), State Relay (SR) and Participating National (PN)
sources) follow the transmission procedures and make the announcements
in the National Level Instructions of the EAS Operating Handbook.
(ii) Non-participating National (NN) sources follow the
transmission procedures and make the sign-off announcement in the EAS
Operating Handbook's National Level Instructions section for NN
sources. After the sign-off announcement, NN sources are required to
remove their carriers from the air and monitor for the Emergency Action
Termination message. NN sources using automatic interrupt under
Sec. 11.51(l)(1) must transmit the header codes, Attention Signal,
sign-off announcement and EOM code after receiving the appropriate EAS
header codes for a national emergency.
(5) After completing the above transmission procedures, key EAS and
Participating National sources must transmit a common emergency message
until receipt of the Emergency Action Termination Message. Message
priorities are specified in Sec. 11.44. If LP or SR sources of a Local
Area cannot provide an emergency message feed, any source in the Local
Area may elect to provide a message feed. This should be done in an
organized manner as designated in State and Local Area EAS Plans.
(6) The Standby Script shall be used until emergency messages are
available. The text of the Standby Script is in the EAS Operating
Handbook's section for Participating sources.
(7) TV broadcast stations shall display an appropriate EAS slide
and then transmit all EAS announcements visually and aurally as
specified in Sec. 73.1250(h) of this chapter.
(8) Announcements may be made in the same language as the primary
language of the station.
(9) Broadcast Stations in the International Broadcast Service must
cease broadcasting immediately upon receipt of an Emergency Action
Notification and must maintain radio silence until an EAT is issued.
Such stations may be issued an emergency authorization by the FCC with
concurrence of the Director, Office of Science and Technology Policy,
to transmit Federal government broadcasts or communications.
(10) Broadcast stations may transmit their call letters and cable
systems may transmit the names of the communities they serve during an
EAS activation. EAS State and Local Area identifications must be given
as provided in State and Local Area EAS plans.
(11) All broadcast stations and cable systems operating and
identified with a particular Local Area must transmit a common national
emergency message until receipt of the Emergency Action Termination.
(12) Broadcast stations, except those holding an EAS Non-
participating National Authorization letter, are exempt from complying
with Sec. 73.62 and Sec. 73.1560 of this chapter (operating power
maintenance) while operating under this part.
(13) National Primary (NP) sources must operate under the
procedures in the National Control Point Procedures.
(14) The time of receipt of the EAN and Emergency Action
Termination messages shall be entered in the broadcast station logs (as
specified in Sec. 73.1820 and Sec. 73.1840 of this chapter), or the
cable system records (as specified in Sec. 76.305 of this chapter).
(c) Upon receipt of an Emergency Action Termination Message,
broadcast stations and cable systems must follow the termination
procedures in the EAS Operating Handbook.
(d) Broadcast stations and cable systems originating emergency
communications under this section shall be considered to have conferred
rebroadcast authority, as required by Section 325(a) of the
Communications Act of 1934, 47 U.S.C. Sec. 325(a), to other
participating broadcast stations and cable systems.
Sec. 11.55 EAS operation during a State or Local Area emergency.
(a) The EAS may be activated at the State or Local Area levels by
broadcast stations and cable systems at their discretion for day-to-day
emergency situations posing a threat to life and property. Examples of
natural emergencies which may warrant activation are: tornadoes,
floods, hurricanes, earthquakes, heavy snows, icing conditions,
widespread fires, etc. Man-made emergencies may include: toxic gas
leaks or liquid spills, widespread power failures, industrial
explosions, and civil disorders.
(b) EAS operations must be conducted as specified in State and
Local Area EAS Plans. The plans must list all authorized entities
participating in the State or Local Area EAS.
(c) Immediately upon receipt of a State or Local Area EAS message,
participating broadcast stations and cable systems must do the
following:
(1) State Relay (SR) sources monitor the State Relay Network or
follow the State EAS plan for instructions from the State Primary (SP)
source.
(2) Local Primary (LP) sources monitor the Local Area SR sources or
follow the State EAS plan for instructions.
(3) Participating National (PN) and Non-participating National (NN)
sources monitor the Local Area LP sources for instructions.
(4) Broadcast stations and cable systems participating in the State
or Local Area EAS must discontinue normal programming and follow the
procedures in the State and Local Area Plans. Television stations must
comply with Sec. 11.54(b)(7). Broadcast stations providing foreign
language programming shall comply with Sec. 11.54(b)(8).
(5) Upon completion of the State or Local Area EAS transmission
procedures, resume normal programming until receipt of the cue from the
SR or LP sources in your Local Area. At that time begin transmitting
the common emergency message received from the above sources.
(6) Resume normal operations upon conclusion of the message.
(7) The times of the above EAS actions must be entered in the
broadcast station or cable system records as specified in
Sec. 11.54(b)(15), FCC Form 201 may be used to report EAS activations.
(8) Use of the EAS codes or Attention Signal automatically grants
rebroadcast authority as specified in Sec. 11.54(d).
Subpart E--Tests
Sec. 11.61 Tests of EAS procedures.
(a) Tests shall be made at regular intervals as indicated below.
Additional tests may be performed anytime. EAS activations and special
tests may be performed in lieu of required tests as specified in
paragraph (a)(6) of this section. All tests will conform with the
procedures in the EAS Operating Handbook.
(1) Required Monthly Tests of the EAS header codes, Attention
Signal, Test Script and EOM code.
(i) Effective July 1, 1996, AM, FM and TV stations.
(ii) Effective July 1, 1997, cable systems.
(iii) Tests in odd numbered months shall occur between 8:30 a.m.
and local sunset. Tests in even numbered months shall occur between
local sunset and 8:30 a.m. They will originate from Local or State
Primary sources. Time and script content will be developed by State
Emergency Communications Committees in cooperation with affected
broadcast stations, cable systems, and other participants. Script
content can be in the primary language of the broadcast station or
cable system. These monthly tests must be transmitted within 15 minutes
of receipt by broadcast stations and cable systems in an EAS Local Area
or State. Class D non-commercial educational FM and LPTV stations need
to transmit only the test script.
(2) Required Weekly Tests:
(i) Attention Signal. Until July 1, 1996, broadcast stations must
conduct tests of the Attention Signal and Test Script at least once a
week at random days and times between 8:30 a.m. and local sunset. Class
D non-commercial educational FM and LPTV stations do not need to
transmit the Attention Signal. Script content can be in the primary
language of the station.
(ii) EAS Header Codes and EOM Codes:
(A) Effective July 1, 1996, AM, FM and TV stations must conduct
tests of the EAS header and EOM codes at least once a week at random
days and times.
(B) Effective July 1, 1997, subject cable systems must conduct
tests of the EAS header and EOM codes at least once a week at random
days and times.
(iii) Class D non-commercial educational FM and LPTV stations are
not required to transmit this test but must log receipt.
(iv) The EAS weekly test is not required during the week that a
monthly test is conducted.
(3) Periodic Wire Service Tests. AP, Reuters and UPI shall
separately conduct test transmissions to broadcast stations and cable
systems on their wire networks. Tests may occur no more than once a
month at random times selected by the wire services. These tests shall
conform with the procedures in the EAS Operating Handbook and the
National Control Point Procedures.
(4) Weekly Emergency Action Notification (EAN) network
transmissions. Tests of the National level interconnection facilities
shall be conducted on a random basis once each week. They shall
originate from the Federal government over a dedicated network to
specified control points of the radio and television networks, cable
networks and program suppliers, wire services, common carriers and
other organizations. The tests shall conform with the National Control
Point Procedures.
(5) Periodic National Tests. National Primary (NP) sources shall
participate in tests as appropriate. The FCC may request a report of
these tests.
(6) EAS activations and special tests. The EAS may be activated at
the State or Local Area level by a broadcast station or cable system in
lieu of the monthly or weekly tests required by this section. Such
activation must include transmission of the EAS header codes, Attention
Signal, emergency message and EOM code for substitution of the monthly
test. Activation must include transmission of the Attention Signal and
emergency message for substitution of the weekly test in paragraph
(a)(2)(i) of this section. Activation must include transmission of the
EAS header and EOM codes for substitution of the weekly test in
paragraph (a)(2)(ii) of this section. Television stations and cable
systems shall comply with the visual message requirements in Sec. 11.51
of this part. Special EAS tests at the State and Local Area levels may
be conducted on a day-to-day basis following procedures in State and
Local Area EAS plans.
(b) Entries shall be made in the broadcast station or cable system
records as specified in Sec. 11.54(b)(14) concerning EAS tests received
and transmitted.
Sec. 11.62 Closed Circuit Tests of National Level EAS facilities.
(a) Closed Circuit Tests (CCT) of National Level EAS facilities
shall be conducted on a random or scheduled basis not more than once a
month and not less than once every three months. Test times will be
selected by the White House in coordination with participating industry
personnel, the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), and the FCC.
The FCC will notify the participating networks, wire services, cable
networks and program suppliers and common carriers of the selected time
window for the test at least four working days (holidays excluded)
before the test.
(b) The EAS Operating Handbook and National Control Point
Procedures contain the CCT procedures.
(c) The control points of the participating radio and television
networks, cable networks and program suppliers, wire services and
common carriers will receive notification of a CCT by a ``Closed
Circuit Test Activation Message''.
(d) Test announcements will originate from a point selected by the
White House with program feed circuitry connected to the telephone
company Toll Test Center at points coordinated for each test.
Participating common carriers will connect, as required, the facilities
of the radio networks and other test participants. Telephone companies
are not authorized to add any participating independent broadcast
stations unless authorized by the FCC. Authentication will be provided
to the Toll Test Center or other program entry location responsible for
test arrangements. Authentication used in the CCT Message will be the
test words on the outside of the Red Envelope Authenticator List.
(e) CCT procedures for radio network affiliates, wire service
subscribers, and, if participating, television network affiliates and
cable systems are as follows:
(1) Notification of a CCT will be disseminated as specified in
Sec. 11.53 (a)(1) and (a)(3) and the EAS Operating Handbook.
(2) Recipients immediately monitor their radio network, and if
participating, their television network or cable system, and check
their wire service for the receipt of the CCT Activation Message.
Verify authenticity using the current Red Authenticator List.
(3) Continue to monitor for the CCT audio talkup and program.
(4) Enter the time of receipt of the CCT message in the broadcast
station log or cable system records.
(5) The CCT terminates on the following aural closing cue in the
text of the test program: ``This concludes the Closed Circuit Test of
the EAS.''
(6) Following the closing cue, wire service subscribers will
receive a ``Closed Circuit Test Termination Message''. Record the time
of receipt as indicated above.
(f) The FCC may request a CCT report in a prescribed format.
PART 73--RADIO BROADCAST SERVICES
7. The authority citation for Part 73 continues to read as follows:
Authority: 47 U.S.C. 154, 303, 334.
8. Part 73, Subpart G, is amended by removing Secs. 73.901 through
73.962, revising the subpart heading, removing all centered headings
and adding Section 73.900 to read as follows:
Subpart G--Emergency Broadcast System
Sec. 73.900 Cross references.
The Emergency Broadcast System (EBS) rules have been renamed the
Emergency Alert System (EAS) and revised. The new EAS rules are
contained in a new Part 11. Equipment type accepted for EBS use under
the old Subpart G rules may continue to be used at broadcast stations
until July 1, 1996, provided that it meets all applicable requirements
of Part 11.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Old section New section
------------------------------------------------------------------------
73.901........................................... 11.1
73.902........................................... 11.1
73.903........................................... 11.11
73.904........................................... Removed
73.905........................................... 11.13
73.906........................................... 11.12
73.907........................................... 11.13
73.908........................................... 11.15
73.909........................................... 11.16
73.910........................................... 11.17
73.912........................................... 11.43
73.913........................................... 11.18
73.914........................................... 11.19
73.915........................................... 11.19
73.916........................................... 11.19
73.917........................................... 11.19
73.918........................................... 11.19
73.919........................................... 11.20
73.920........................................... 11.21(b)
73.921........................................... 11.21
73.922........................................... 11.44
73.926........................................... 11.41
73.927........................................... 11.42
73.931........................................... 11.14, 11.53
73.932........................................... 11.35, 11.51, 11.52
73.933........................................... 11.54
73.935........................................... 11.55
73.936........................................... 11.55
73.937........................................... 11.55
73.940........................................... 11.32
73.941........................................... 11.33
73.942........................................... 11.34
73.943........................................... 11.34
73.961........................................... 11.61
73.962........................................... 11.62
------------------------------------------------------------------------
9. Section 73.1207 is amended by revising paragraph (b)(1) and
adding a new paragraph (c)(4) to read as follows:
Sec. 73.1207 Rebroadcasts.
* * * * *
(b) * * *
(1) Stations originating emergency communications under a State EAS
plan are considered to have conferred rebroadcast authority to other
participating stations.
* * * * *
(c) * * *
(4) Emergency communications originated under a State EAS plan.
* * * * *
10. Section 73.1250 is amended by revising paragraph (c) and
revising the last sentence of paragraph (h) to read as follows:
Sec. 73.1250 Broadcasting emergency information.
* * * * *
(c) If the Emergency Alert System (EAS) is activated for a national
emergency while a Local Area or State emergency operation is in
progress, the national level EAS operation must take precedence. If,
during the broadcasting of Local Area or State emergency information,
the EAS codes or Attention Signal described in Sec. 11.12 of this
chapter are used, the broadcasts are considered as being carried out
under a Local Area or State EAS plan.
* * * * *
(h) * * * However, when an emergency operation is being conducted
under a national, State or Local Area Emergency Alert System (EAS)
plan, emergency information shall be transmitted both aurally and
visually unless only the EAS codes are transmitted as specified in
Sec. 11.51 of this chapter.
11. Section 73.1820 is amended by revising paragraph (a)(1)(iii) to
read as follows.
Sec. 73.1820 Station log.
(a) * * *
(1) * * *
(iii) An entry of each test and activation of the Emergency Alert
System (EAS) pursuant to the requirement of part 11 of this chapter and
the EAS Operating Handbook. Stations may keep EAS data in a special EAS
log which shall be maintained at a convenient location; however, this
log is considered a part of the station log.
* * * * *
12. Section 73.3549 is amended by revising the heading and the
first sentence to read as follows.
Sec. 73.3549 Requests for extension of authority to operate without
required monitors, indicating instruments, and EAS encoders and
decoders.
Requests for extension of authority to operate without required
monitors, transmission system indicating instruments, or encoders and
decoders for monitoring and generating the EAS codes and Attention
Signal should be made to the Engineer in Charge of the Field Office in
which the station is operating. * * *
* * * * *
13. Section 73.4097 is amended by revising the heading to read as
follows:
Sec. 73.4097 EBS (now EAS) attention signals on automated programming
systems.
* * * * *
14. The alphabetical index following Part 73 is amended by removing
the entries for ``EBS (Emergency Broadcast System),'' ``EBS signal
tests--automated systems,'' and ``Emergency information,
Broadcasting,'' and adding the following entries:
ALPHABETICAL INDEX--PART 73
* * * * *
E
* * * * *
EAS (Emergency Alert System--11.1-11.62
EAS signal test-automated systems--73.4097(*)
* * * * *
Emergency Alert System (EAS)--11.1-11.62
PART 76--CABLE TELEVISION SERVICE
15. The authority Citation for Part 76 continues to read:
Authority: Sec. 2, 3, 4, 301, 303., 307, 308, 309, 48 Stat., as
amended, 1064, 1065, 1066, 1081, 1082, 1083, 1084, 1085, 1101; 47
U.S.C. Secs. 152, 153, 154, 301, 303, 307, 308, 309; 532; 533; 535;
542; 543; 552; 554, as amended, 106 Stat. 1460.
16. Section 76.3 is amended by adding a new entry in numerical
order to read as follows:
Sec. 76.3 Other pertinent rules.
* * * * *
Part 11--Emergency Alert System (EAS)
* * * * *
17. Section 76.5 is amended by adding a new paragraph (qq) to read
as follows:
Sec. 76.5 Definitions.
* * * * *
(qq) Emergency Alert System (EAS). The EAS is composed of broadcast
networks; cable networks and program suppliers; AM, FM and TV broadcast
stations; Low Power TV (LPTV) stations; subject cable systems; and
other entities and industries operating on an organized basis during
emergencies at the National, State, or local levels.
18. Section 76.301 is revised to read as follows:.
Sec. 76.301 Copies of rules.
The operator of a cable television system shall have a current copy
of Part 76 and, if subject to the Emergency Alert System (EAS) rules
contained in Part 11 of this chapter, an EAS Operating Handbook, and is
expected to be familiar with the rules governing cable television
systems and the EAS. Copies of the Commission's Rules may be obtained
from the Superintendent of Documents, Government Printing Office,
Washington, D.C. 20402, at nominal cost. Copies of the EAS Operating
Handbook may be obtained from the Commission's EAS staff, in
Washington, DC.
19. Section 76.305 is amended by adding a new paragraph (a)(1) and
adding and reserving paragraph (a)(2) to read as follows:
Sec. 76.305 Records to be maintained locally by cable system operators
for public inspection.
(a) * * *
(1) A record shall be kept of each test and activation of the
Emergency Alert System (EAS) procedures pursuant to the requirement of
part 11 of this chapter and the EAS Operating Handbook. These records
shall be kept for three years.
(2) [Reserved]
* * * * *
[FR Doc. 94-31317 Filed 12-27-94; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 6712-01-M