NAB Statement on Wireless Network Outages Following 5.8 Earthquake on East Coast

WASHINGTON, D.C. -- In response to widespread congestion of cellphone networks following the 5.8 earthquake affecting the eastern United States, NAB Executive Vice President of Communications Dennis Wharton issued the following statement:

“Policymakers debating spectrum policy ought to take note that the one reliable communications service during today’s earthquake was the original wireless technology -- free and local broadcasting. It’s easy to get dazzled by iPads and Smartphones, but all the spectrum in the world won’t ensure reliability of the ’one-to-one’ cellphone network architecture during an emergency. When there’s a crisis, it’s hard to replicate the reliability of the ’one-to-everyone’ local radio and TV broadcast signal.”

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The National Association of Broadcasters is the premier advocacy association for America’s broadcasters. NAB advances radio and television interests in legislative, regulatory and public affairs. Through advocacy, education and innovation, NAB enables broadcasters to best serve their communities, strengthen their businesses and seize new opportunities in the digital age. Learn more at www.nab.org.