Reminder – EAS Test Reporting System Filing Deadline February 28

This is a reminder that the FCC previously advised that parties that are Emergency Alert System (EAS") Participants, which would include not only virtually all broadcast stations, but also, wired and wireless cable television systems, Satellite Digital Audio Radio Service, and wireline video systems, must submit Form One filings for calendar year 2022 in the online EAS Test Reporting System (ETRS) by no later than February 28, 2023. We provided a more extensive discussion of this requirement in our blog post last December.

The FCC has now indicated just how much it wants to see these Form One filings by sending reminder e-mails to contact representatives for EAS Participants. Despite the absence of any nationwide test in 2022, and even if the FCC's reading of its rules to nonetheless require an annual update is a bit strained, it has now very clearly given notice that it is requiring the Form One filing. The ETRS system is now open, and we would strongly advise that EAS Participants get their updated forms on file. We also urge you to make sure that the information provided correctly reports the current equipment and software you are using. In its pending rule making proceeding seeking to improve the EAS system (PS Docket No. 15-94), the FCC is currently considering whether further reporting or other obligations should be imposed on EAS Participants to ensure operational readiness.

If you have any questions or would like assistance preparing your Form One filing, please contact a Fletcher, Heald & Hildreth attorney and we would be glad to help.