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Del. bill would let licensed broadcasters travel during declared emergencies to keep stations on air
Summary
The Senate Environment, Energy and Transportation Committee heard testimony on Senate Bill 49, which would exempt FCC‑licensed radio and television staff from certain state driving restrictions during declared emergencies so they can maintain transmitters and keep emergency information flowing to the public.
Senator Stephanie Hansen, chair of the Senate Environment, Energy and Transportation Committee, on behalf of the committee, heard testimony in March 2025 on Senate Bill 49, sponsored by Senator Bridal Pettyjohn, which would authorize FCC‑licensed radio and television personnel to travel to maintain broadcast facilities during state declarations of emergency.
The bill’s sponsor, Senator Bridal Pettyjohn, told the committee the measure responds to requests from Delaware broadcasters who need to reach transmitters and maintain equipment during emergencies so the public receives timely information. "Our broadcasters... provide very important information to Delawareans during times of emergency," Pettyjohn said during the hearing.
Walter Palmer, director of broadcast operations for Data…
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