WASHINGTON, D.C. – Yesterday, Senator Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.) introduced S.2645, the Connecting Communities Post Disasters Act, to speed up communications recovery after a natural disaster. This legislation requires the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) to exempt projects that replace or make improvements to damaged communications facilities or equipment following a major disaster or Presidentially declared emergency. Rep. Pete Olson (TX-22) has introduced companion legislation in the House of Representatives.

“In the wake of a disaster, victims need to know that they have every avenue available to rebuild their lives. By removing red tape, companies can more quickly help communities get their communications infrastructure back online,” said Senator Blackburn. “The ability to communicate is crucial to our day to day lives, and we cannot have burdensome regulations standing in the way of rebuilding vital networks. I am pleased to join Rep. Olson in a bicameral effort to aid recovery in Presidentially declared disaster areas.”

“In the aftermath of hurricanes, tornadoes and other natural disasters there should be one priority: aiding the people impacted by devastation as quickly as possible,” said Rep. Olson. “All too often, red tape and unnecessary regulations get in the way and prevent people from rebuilding their homes, repairing their businesses and healing their families. I am proud to introduce the Connecting Communities Post Disasters Act to change this; the bill removes barriers of bureaucracy and speeds up the recovery process. I thank Senator Marsha Blackburn for joining me in this effort with simultaneous introduction of a companion bill in the Senate, and urge quick action in both chambers to pass this critical legislation.”