HR1076-119

What This Bill Does

The Weather Alert Response and Notification Act (WARN Act) directs the Government Accountability Office to study how well emergency alert systems work during severe weather events. The study will evaluate different ways to send alerts (like social media, sirens, and text messages), review training and guidance for creating effective alerts, and gather input from emergency managers and local officials about potential improvements.

Who Benefits and How

Emergency management professionals benefit by receiving evidence-based recommendations to improve their alert systems and potentially secure funding for upgrades. Technology companies that provide emergency alert platforms and social media companies could benefit if the study identifies their services as effective, potentially leading to increased government adoption. State and local governments benefit from improved guidance on how to communicate with the public during emergencies.

Who Bears the Burden and How

The Government Accountability Office must conduct the study and prepare a comprehensive report to Congress within 18 months, requiring significant staff time and resources. Emergency managers, local officials, and community groups selected for the study will need to participate in interviews and provide input, adding to their workload. Congressional committees must review and act on the findings.

Key Provisions

• Requires GAO to evaluate the effectiveness of federal, state, territory, and local emergency alerting systems during weather-related emergencies
• Study must assess various alert platforms including social media, outdoor sirens, and modern communication technologies
• GAO must review existing guidance and training for creating clear, actionable emergency alerts
• Study must gather input from emergency managers, local officials, and community groups on potential improvements
• Report to Congress due within 18 months to the Homeland Security and Transportation committees