Today, the Multicultural Media, Telecom and Internet Council (MMTC) filed a letter with the FCC, urging the Commission to support the activation of FM chips, a move that will enhance the ability of broadcasters to distribute lifesaving emergency alert notifications in the event of natural and man-made emergencies. The full text of the letter is below.
Consistent with our advocacy to ensure that all Americans have access to emergency broadcasts regardless of the breadth of a national emergency, the Multicultural Media, Telecom and Internet Council (MMTC) urges the FCC to support the activation of FM chips.
Most smartphones already have FM chips built into the device. However, some wireless operators have chosen not to activate them and extend free, over-the-air radio to wireless audiences.
MMTC is supportive of this effort because it enhances the ability of broadcasters to distribute lifesaving, emergency alert notifications before, during and after natural and man-made emergencies.
Hurricane Katrina was a national demonstration of what not to do in an emergency. When cellular service was interrupted, families were disconnected from other family members. Residents lost touch with neighbors and essentially found themselves without critical information to direct them to shelter, food and government services. The FM chip would have added a layer of security for consumers, first responders and other stakeholders interested in the timely distribution of emergency response data. During Hurricane Katrina, terrestrial radio was the only viable method of mass communications, and the activation of FM chips would have potentially extended this service to wireless consumers who are more likely to be “smartphone dependent,” minority, multilingual and, in some cases, geographically isolated.
Therefore, MMTC asks that you champion activating the FM Chip in smartphones. We have made great strides but still have more work to do, and with your support and endorsement we could make radio a reality in all smartphones. You can help by encouraging all cellular carriers to turn on the FM Chips in their phones. The goal is to provide all Americans with peace-of-mind during emergencies so they will be kept abreast of lifesaving alerts if ever needed.
Thank you in advance for your consideration of this request. Please feel free to contact me to discuss next steps.
Respectfully submitted,
Kim Keenan
President and CEO
cc: Hon. Mignon Clyburn
Hon. Ajit Pai
Hon. Jessica Rosenworcel
Hon. Michael O’Rielly
