The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has proposed a fine of $146,976 against ESPN for allegedly misusing the emergency alert system (EAS) during a promotional segment for the start of the 2023-2024 NBA season.
The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has taken action against ESPN for its alleged improper use of the emergency alert system (EAS). The agency proposed a fine of $146,976 against the sports network on Thursday, accusing it of violating the EAS six times starting October 20, 2023.
According to the FCC, ESPN transmitted or caused the transmission of EAS codes during a promotional segment for the start of the 2023-2024 NBA season. The agency said that these actions violated section 11.45(a) of its rules, which prohibits transmitting or causing the transmission of EAS codes or Attention Signal in the absence of an actual emergency, authorized test of the EAS, or qualified public service announcement.
ESPN Faces Hefty Fine for Misuse of Emergency Alert System
The FCC stated that it received complaints of ESPN improperly using the tones or a simulation of the tones during a promotion last year. ESPN confirmed that it developed, produced, and transmitted the promo spot, and admitted that it transmitted a portion of the EAS attention signals as part of the promo spot in the absence of a permitted use.
The FCC noted that this was not the first time ESPN had been penalized for EAS violations. The network was previously fined in 2015 and 2021 for similar offenses.
ESPN Faces Hefty Fine for Misuse of Emergency Alert System
FCC Enforcement Bureau Chief Loyaan A. Egal emphasized the importance of proper use of the EAS. "Transmitting EAS Tones in the absence of an actual emergency is not a game," he said. "These types of violations can raise substantial public safety concerns by causing confusion and in some cases interfering with legitimate emergency uses."
The FCC's proposed fine reflects its commitment to maintaining the integrity of the EAS, which is a vital tool for alerting the public to emergencies. The agency emphasized that broadcasters must use the system responsibly to ensure its effectiveness in actual emergency situations.
ESPN has declined to comment on the issue, according to Reuters. The network has 30 days to respond to the FCC's notice of apparent liability for forfeiture.
The FCC's action serves as a reminder to broadcasters and the public of the importance of adhering to regulations regarding the use of emergency alert systems. Misuse of the EAS can undermine its effectiveness and create confusion during real emergencies.
