Resilient Networks; Concerning Disruptions to Communications

In this document, the Federal Communications Commission (Commission) modernizes the Disaster Information Reporting System (DIRS) to reduce reporting burdens on stakeholders and ensure that the information being collected is useful for disaster response. Our modernization allows manual filers to submit a single, dynamic form instead of multiple worksheets, and enables them to use a "one-click" option to easily indicate there is no change from the previous day's report. Further, unnecessary fields and worksheets will be eliminated to ensure that DIRS is collecting the information that is most important for emergency response. This modernization also eliminates the requirement for service providers to file a DIRS final report within 24 hours of DIRS' deactivation, and exempts non-facilities-based providers from DIRS reporting. This document also recognizes the emergence of public safety voice and broadband networks and the critical connectivity they provide to public safety stakeholders by requiring providers of these services to submit DIRS reports on the status of their public safety network infrastructure. Finally, we augment providers' ability to voluntarily submit geospatial information on infrastructure affected by disasters. Together, these changes provide public safety officials with the additional information they need, while also making it easier for service providers to satisfy their reporting obligations.