“People were trapped in their cars for days, many were trapped in their homes without power, and rescue crews struggled to get to those in need,” Congressman Langworthy said on the House Floor. “Some of these deaths could’ve been prevented, but local warning systems failed to adequately communicate the risks to the public. We can’t let this happen again.”
“Whether it’s a blizzard, a hurricane, a tornado, or other severe weather event, we must ensure that our emergency alert systems are timely, accurate, and capable of reaching everyone,” Langworthy added. “By equipping our communities with clearer, more actionable alerts, we can save lives and prevent tragedies like those experienced during Winter Storm Elliott. Preparation is the key to protecting lives and minimizing damage during these crises.”
Specifically, the WARN Act directs the Government Accountability Office (GAO) to study the effectiveness of local, state, and federal emergency alert systems, with a focus on adopting cutting-edge technologies such as mobile alerts and satellite communications. The legislation aims to improve the clarity and reliability of alerts, providing critical support for emergency managers on the front lines of disasters.
