FCC Pushes for Audible Emergency Alerts on Non-News TV Shows
Published Date: 5/15/2026
Proposed Rule
Summary
The FCC wants to make sure emergency info on TV is easy to hear and read for everyone, especially during non-news shows. They’re updating rules so if emergency text crawls match the visual alerts, they just need to be read aloud too. Video providers and distributors should get ready to follow these changes, with feedback due by June 15, 2026—no big costs expected, just clearer emergency info for all!
Analyzed Economic Effects
3 provisions identified: 3 benefits, 0 costs, 0 mixed.
Text Crawls Can Satisfy Audible Crawl Rule
The FCC proposes revising the Audible Crawl Rule so that if a textual on-screen crawl conveys emergency information duplicative of or equivalent to a visual, non-textual graphic (like a radar map), the rule is satisfied as long as that textual crawl is also read aloud. This change would apply to video programming distributors and providers and is intended to ensure people who are blind or have low vision get the same emergency details as sighted viewers.
New Aural Presentation Standards
The proposed rule text requires that emergency information provided aurally on the secondary audio stream must be preceded by an aural tone, be conveyed in full at least twice, and that any text-to-speech (TTS) output be intelligible and use correct pronunciation of names (shelters, streets, districts, etc.). The video programming creator must provide the aural version and distributors must ensure it is passed through to consumers.
Eases Compliance Burdens for Broadcasters
The FCC tentatively concludes that revising the rule to accept textual crawls read aloud will ease compliance burdens for video programming distributors and providers (including broadcasters and MVPDs) because a technical automated solution for converting non-textual graphics to audio does not currently exist. The Commission states it does not expect significant cost increases for these entities because stations generally already run textual crawls that could satisfy the proposal.
Your PRIA Score
Personalized for You
How does this regulation affect your finances?
Sign up for a PRIA Policy Scan to see your personalized alignment score for this federal register document and every other regulation we track. We analyze your financial profile against policy provisions to show you exactly what matters to your wallet.
Key Dates
Department and Agencies
Related Federal Register Documents
2026-13213 — Information Collection Being Reviewed by the Federal Communications Commission
The FCC is checking in on its paperwork rules for businesses and governments managing cybersecurity and supply chain risks. They want your thoughts on how to make these forms easier and clearer, especially for small businesses. If you’re involved, get your comments in by August 31, 2026, to help shape the process without adding extra costs or hassle.
2026-13220 — Information Collections Being Submitted for Review and Approval to Office of Management and Budget
The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) is asking the public and small businesses to share their thoughts on how to make paperwork easier and less time-consuming. They’re reviewing some info collection forms and want comments by July 31, 2026. This effort aims to cut down hassle, especially for small businesses with fewer than 25 employees, without costing extra money or time.
2026-13163 — Notification of Cancelled Adjustment of Civil Monetary Penalties for Inflation
Good news for 2026! The Federal Communications Commission is keeping civil penalty amounts the same—no inflation increases this year. If you deal with FCC rules, your fines won’t get bigger starting June 17, 2026, so no surprise hikes in your wallet.
2026-13155 — Resilient Networks; Concerning Disruptions to Communications
The FCC is making it easier and faster for communication providers to report network problems during disasters. They’re cutting out extra paperwork, letting some providers skip reports, and adding new rules for public safety networks to keep everyone connected when it counts. These changes start June 30, 2026, helping emergency teams get better info without stressing out providers.
2026-12778 — FCC Adopts Application Limit and Eligibility Restrictions for New NCE Reserved Band FM Translator Station Applications in Upcoming 2026 Filing Window
Starting July 27, 2026, the FCC is setting new rules for folks applying to build noncommercial educational FM translator stations in the reserved band. Applicants can only submit a limited number of applications, and only certain groups will be eligible to apply. This helps keep things fair and organized for the upcoming 2026 filing window without extra costs for applicants.
2026-12798 — Sunshine Act Meetings; Open Commission Meeting Thursday, June 25, 2026
On June 25, 2026, the FCC will hold an open meeting to tackle big issues like cutting red tape for faster internet wiring and making sure kids stay safe online at schools and libraries. These changes could speed up internet access and protect children, affecting communities, schools, and local governments. The meeting starts at 10:30 a.m., and everyone can watch live online—no appointment needed!
Previous / Next Documents
Previous: 2026-09801 — Airworthiness Directives; Stemme GmbH Gliders
If you own a Stemme S 12 glider, heads up! The FAA wants you to regularly check your fuel system for leaks caused by certain copper rings and replace any faulty ones. This keeps your glider safe and stops risky fuel leaks, with comments on the plan due by June 29, 2026.
Next: 2026-09821 — Promoting the Integrity and Security of Telecommunications Certification Bodies, Measurement Facilities, and the Equipment Authorization Program
The FCC wants to stop recognizing test labs and certification bodies in places that don’t have trade agreements with the U.S. They’re also looking to upgrade how they analyze data and protect national security and intellectual property. If you’re involved in telecom testing or certification, get ready for changes and share your thoughts by mid-June 2026!