Mobile providers would choose whether to send alerts by satellite

The FCC would set requirements to help covered mobile providers send emergency alerts by satellite. The requirements would govern mobile providers that offer satellite voice and data and already participate in the federal wireless alert system. The FCC would have to consult the Department of Homeland Security and FEMA before issuing the final rule. The requirements would have to account for satellite and mobile-device capabilities and limit disruption to voice, data, and 9-1-1 communications. The FCC would propose rules within 6 months after enactment and issue a final rule within 18 months. The rule would take effect on the later of 36 months after publication or 12 months after DHS and FEMA put needed support measures in place.

Each covered provider would have to tell the FCC whether it will send emergency alerts by satellite. The choice would cover alerts sent to participating providers' subscribers whose devices can receive them by satellite. Providers choosing satellite delivery would have to follow FCC technical requirements, honor subscriber alert opt-outs, and charge no separate or additional fee. Providers declining satellite delivery would have to notify new and existing covered subscribers. Providers would have to file their choice within 60 days after the FCC's final rule takes effect.

Providers meeting the bill's duties would not be liable to subscribers or users for specified conduct involving satellite alerts. The protection would extend to covered providers and their officers, directors, employees, vendors, and agents, but only when they meet the bill's duties. The protection would cover sending or failing to send an alert and sharing delivery-related subscriber information with government agencies or emergency responders. A provider's choice not to send satellite alerts could not, by itself, serve as the basis for liability.