Bill to Improve Statewide Emergency Alert Systems Passes Senate Committee

SB25-031 would develop a single point of contact to improve statewide emergency alert coverage

DENVER, CO – Senator Dylan Roberts’, D-Frisco, bill to expand access to emergency alert systems was approved by the Senate Business, Labor and Technology Committee yesterday. 

SB25-031 would require the Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Management in the Department of Public Safety (DPS) to develop a single point of contact to improve statewide access to critical emergency alert information, recommend improvements for local governments who administer alert systems to address language and accessibility needs, provide technical assistance to local communities, and offer recommendations to improve emergency alert systems. 

“In the event of an emergency, every Coloradan deserves access to alerts, no matter where they live. It could literally be the difference between life and death,” said Roberts. “This bill will upgrade several aspects of our emergency communications infrastructure to improve public safety and standardize access for all.”

In addition to improving emergency communications in DPS, SB25-031 would expand the scope of Colorado’s Broadband Office in the Office of Information Technology to include promoting access to wireless service. 

SB25-031 is one of three bills to advance out of the bipartisan Cell Phone Connectivity Interim Study Committee, tasked with identifying gaps in cell phone coverage and connectivity in Colorado. 

SB25-031 now heads to the Senate Appropriations Committee for further consideration. Track the bill’s progress HERE.