Mystic Alerts Act
Sponsored By: Representative Pfluger
Passed House
Summary
Satellite transmission of emergency alerts is the central goal of the Mystic Alerts Act, creating rules for certain mobile providers to send alerts by satellite while protecting consumers and limiting liability.
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- People with devices that can receive satellite signals could get emergency alerts where cell networks are unavailable. They can opt out and providers may not charge extra fees for satellite alert delivery.
- Covered service providers could elect to transmit alerts by satellite but must notify customers and follow FCC technical rules and coordination requirements. Compliant providers receive liability immunity for acts or omissions in transmitting alerts.
- The Federal Communications Commission would lead rulemaking and coordinate with the Department of Homeland Security and FEMA to set standards and procedures. The final rule would take effect on the later of 36 months after publication or 12 months after DHS/FEMA implement the required standards.
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Bill Overview
Analyzed Economic Effects
2 provisions identified: 1 benefits, 0 costs, 1 mixed.
FCC timeline for satellite alerts
If enacted, the FCC would start a rulemaking on satellite emergency alerts. A proposed rule would be published no later than 6 months after enactment. A final rule would be issued no later than 18 months after enactment, in consultation with DHS and FEMA. The rule would account for satellite transmission and device display, and would limit interference with other services, including 9-1-1. The final rule would take effect the later of 36 months after publication or 12 months after DHS and FEMA set needed standards and notify the FCC.
Carriers’ satellite alerts: no fees, opt-out kept
If enacted, covered mobile carriers would have 60 days after the FCC’s final rule takes effect to decide whether to send alerts by satellite to capable devices. Carriers that choose to send would have to follow FCC technical rules. They would not be allowed to charge a separate fee for satellite alerts. They would have to block satellite alerts for subscribers who have opted out of wireless alerts. Carriers that choose not to send would have to notify new and current subscribers. The bill would limit liability for carriers that follow these rules, and not sending by itself would not create liability. Only carriers that already take part in wireless alerts and offer satellite voice or data to their subscribers would be covered.
Sponsors & CoSponsors
Sponsor
Pfluger
TX • R
Cosponsors
Fletcher
TX • D
Sponsored 1/12/2026
Rep. Carter, Earl L. "Buddy" [R-GA-1]
GA • R
Sponsored 1/12/2026
Rep. Veasey, Marc A. [D-TX-33]
TX • D
Sponsored 1/12/2026
Rep. Hill, J. French [R-AR-2]
AR • R
Sponsored 1/23/2026
Roll Call Votes
No roll call votes available for this bill.
View on Congress.gov