Sens Markey and Wyden Urge FCC to Promote Communications Network Resiliency

Sens Edward Markey (D-MA) and Ron Wyden (D-OR) sent a letter to the Federal Communications Commission expressing support for the agency’s recent notice of proposed rulemaking to enhance the resiliency of communications networks during emergency situations. Strong action by the FCC is necessary to address the growing threats to communications networks created by extreme weather, natural disasters, including wildfires, and climate change-related events, which are increasingly causing more frequent and severe service disruptions. Sens Markey and Wyden encouraged the FCC to adopt rules aligned with their Generating Resilient and Energy Efficient (GREEN) Communications Act, legislation introduced to promote network resiliency. In addition, the Senators expressed support for modifications to the Wireless Network Resiliency Cooperative Framework, measures to address the need for emergency roaming, requirements for increased reporting to promote situational awareness, and steps to address the impact of power outages affecting communications networks.