House of Representatives Passes Congressman Al Green’s Amendment to the Federal Communications Commission Process Reform Act of 2012

(Washington, DC)--Today, the U.S. House of Representatives passed an amendment, introduced by Congressman Al Green (TX-09), to H.R. 3309, the Federal Communications Commission Process Reform Act of 2012. The amendment, which passed by voice vote, ensures the Federal Communications Commission’s (FCC) ability to provide effective communication systems to alert the public of dangerous weather conditions in emergency situations.

“The American people rely on the FCC, and other agencies, to alert them of impending inclement weather,” Congressman Al Green said. “Anything that removes the red tape, and streamlines the process of helping Americans to protect themselves and their families is absolutely essential.”

H.R. 3309 amends the Communications Act of 1934 to establish procedural requirements for the FCC, in regards to the issuance of proposed rule-making notices, rules with an economic impact, and the approval of line, license, and other transactions. In an effort to achieve transparency and oversight, the bill potentially complicates the FCC’s ability to provide vital services.

“In the past decade, we have seen several dangerous storms from Hurricane Katrina, to the recent tornadoes in Alabama. It would be tragic if the FCC could not ensure timely warnings and notifications because of added bureaucratic rules,” Congressman Al Green said. “The amendment I introduced today will prevent the unintended consequence of H.R. 3309 becoming an obstacle to safety and preparedness.”