FCC to launch emergency text alert system April 10, 2008 Federal regulators approved a proposal to institute a nationwide emergency alert system that will notify subscribers via of terrorist threats, natural disasters and child abductions via mobile messaging. The text notification program is a product of the Warning Alert and Response Network Act, a 2006 federal law requiring the Federal Communications Commission to develop upgrades to the emergency alert system. Although the alert program boasts strong wireless industry support, operator participation is voluntary--similarly, consumers may opt out of the program, although they will not be charged for any alerts they receive. Emergency messages will be delivered with a unique audio signature, or what the FCC calls a "vibration cadence." The emergency alert program is expected to launch by 2010. |