ATLANTA (April 25, 2014) | Governor Nathan Deal signed Senate Bill 381, otherwise known as the First Informer Broadcasters Act, into law yesterday at the State Capitol. Sponsored by Senator Brandon Beach (R- Alpharetta), SB 381 will advise the unified incident command system and the Georgia Emergency Operations Plan (GEOP) to establish planning for first informer broadcasters.
“As our state endured one of the most severe winters in recent history, it was apparent that more conditions must be in place to better inform Georgians at times of unrest,” said Sen. Beach. “With the signing of Senate Bill 381, we are providing more efficient alternatives for the media as they advise the public on how to stay safe and provide information about the approaching storm or crisis situation. Whether an ice storm or other natural disaster, reporters will now have access to basic resources that will allow them to safely report the news as quickly as possible.”
SB 381 will provide a plan during emergencies for first informer broadcasters to have more access to fuel, food, water and other materials necessary for maintaining a broadcast signal.
The GEOP is a comprehensive state emergency operations plan developed to ensure mitigation and preparedness, appropriate response and timely recovery from natural and man-made hazards which may affect residents of Georgia.
The bill will go into effect on July 1, 2014.
For Immediate Release:
April 25, 2014
For Information Contact:
Jennifer Yarber, Director
Emily Williams, Communications Associate
Emily.williams@senate.ga.gov
404.656.0028