HB383 Alabama 2013 Session

Updated Jan 10, 2026

Summary

Primary Sponsor: John Merrill
Republican
Co-Sponsor: Mike Ball
Session: Regular Session 2013
Title: Emergencies, broadcasters, radio, t.v., and cable, emergency response broadcasters, training and certification by Homeland Security Department, access to facilities to repair and restart broadcasting during emergencies
Summary: HB383 would create a program to certify emergency response broadcasters and allow them access to disaster areas to restore broadcasting and provide emergency information.
What This Bill Does
The bill lets radio stations, cable operators, and TV stations work with the Department of Homeland Security to develop coordinated emergency plans. It authorizes DHS to certify broadcasters as emergency response broadcasters. Certified broadcasters could be allowed to access areas affected by emergencies to repair or restore facilities and to transmit essential emergency information to the public.

Who It Affects
Broadcasters (radio, cable, and television) and industry groups: they can develop emergency plans with DHS and may be certified as emergency response broadcasters to respond during disasters.
State and local government agencies and the public: agencies would facilitate access for emergency response broadcasters to affected areas to restore broadcasting capability and ensure the public can receive emergency information.

Key Provisions
Broadcasters may develop comprehensive emergency plans in cooperation with the Department of Homeland Security and the Alabama Broadcasters Association or its successor.
A training and certification program for broadcast engineers and technical personnel to become emergency response broadcasters, meeting criteria such as consistency with federal law and training on restoring, repairing, and resupplying facilities and equipment, plus personal safety.
To the extent practicable and safe, state and local agencies shall allow emergency response broadcasters access to emergency areas to restore, repair, or resupply facilities and equipment essential for delivering emergency information, including transmitters, generators, and fuel transport.
The act becomes effective immediately after passage and governor approval.

AI-generated summary using openai/gpt-5-nano on Feb 24, 2026. May contain errors — refer to the official bill text for accuracy.
Subjects: Telecommunications