FCC SEEKS PUBLIC INPUT ON PROPOSED EVENT CODE FOR MISSING AND ENDANGERED ADULTS

The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) voted on March 14th to propose a Missing and Endangered Event Code to enhance public safety efforts. This decision, made in response to the growing concern over missing adult person cases and the need for expedited alerts, marks a pivotal moment in the nation's emergency response infrastructure.

According to Gerad Godfrey from the Alaska Native Village of Port Lions, the FCC's affirmative vote underscores the importance of collaboration and innovation in addressing pressing societal challenges. "The FCC Commissioners' unanimous vote highlights the urgency of implementing the MEP Event Code. Time is of the essence in these situations, and having a structured protocol in place can significantly improve the chances of locating the individual safely," states Godfrey.

The Missing and Endangered Event Code will provide a standardized protocol for issuing alerts specifically tailored to cases involving missing or endangered adults. These alerts will be disseminated through various communication channels, including broadcast television, radio, and wireless emergency alerts, ensuring widespread coverage and rapid dissemination of critical information.

Publication of the MEP Notice of Proposed Rulemaking will kick off a public comment period. Implementing this new event code will come only after extensive deliberation and input from stakeholders across various sectors, including Tribes, law enforcement agencies, public safety organizations, advocacy groups, broadcasters, and families.

According to Brian Brashier from Oklahoma's Chickasaw Nation, you don't have to be a lawyer to file comments about the proposed MEP Event Code. Brashier is encouraging public input for the much-needed MEP Event Code by underscoring one of the benefits. "The MEP Event Code highlights the significance of data in addressing the MMIWG crisis. Consistently categorizing missing or endangered adults using the MEP Event Code will help analyze trends, identify patterns, and improve strategies for prevention and response."

To file a Comment, check for the publication of the FCC Missing and Endangered Event Code in the federal register at www.federalregister.gov.

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