Below is an email I sent to Congressman Walter Jones, and Senators Richard Burr and Kay Hagan. Following my email is the response from Congressman Jones.
Email –
I have been hearing for weeks in blogs that someone in the government will be testing a communication blackout that will shut down all cable, internet, phones, cell phones, television, and radio on November 9, 2-11; however, I have not heard anything about the blackout on the national or cable news. Today, however, I saw an ad by the Federal Communications Commission on Time Warner cable announcing the blackout to take place on November 9th. What is unclear is why such a blackout is needed and whether it will impact emergency services like 911, police, and fire, and for what purpose the government might need to blackout all communications. I would appreciate if you would provide me with what you know about this FCC action, especially under what conditions the Federal Government thinks that shutting down all communications may be necessary. I would also like to know whether Congress has been consulted and approved of this action and the basis of any Congressional approval if any.
Response –
Dear Mr. Lang:
Thank you for contacting me to share your concerns regarding today’s nationwide test of the Emergency Alert System (EAS). I appreciate you taking the time to contact me and I’m honored to respond.
Today at 2:00 p.m. EST a nationwide test of the EAS was conducted by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), the Federal Communications Commission (FCC), and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). The purpose of the event was to test the ability to alert the public to important emergency information. The government’s ability to conduct this test and all other EAS tests is authorized by the Communications Act of 1934. Participants must be notified of the test at least two months in advance.
Again, thanks for sharing your thoughts and concerns with me. If I may be of any further assistance please feel free to contact my office.