WASHINGTON � The FCC will consider adding a dedicated event code, BLU, for Blue Alerts � and whether a dedicated code can enable nationwide delivery of those alerts.
On its agenda for the June 22 meeting is a notice of proposed rulemaking to that effect. It would amend the Emergency Alert System so that alerts �can deliver actionable information to the public when a law enforcement officer is killed, seriously injured, missing in connection with his or her official duties, or if there is an imminent and credible threat to a law enforcement officer.�
Chairman Ajit Pai wrote in a blog post that if the item is approved, �we�ll then seek public input on whether the EAS is the right way to deliver Blue Alerts. We�ll also explore whether a dedicated EAS code can enable the uniform, nationwide delivery of Blue Alerts to the public.�
Pai said he previewed the concept at the U.S. Department of Justice recently, and compared it to the familiar Amber Alerts and extreme weather warnings.
�If a violent suspect is in your immediate community, Blue Alerts could give you instructions on what to do,� Pai wrote. �These instructions could help you stay safe and help supply time-sensitive information to authorities if a suspect is sighted.�
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