What year did the current Emergency Alert System (EAS) replace the Emergency Broadcast System (EBS)?

The current Emergency Alert System (EAS) replaced the Emergency Broadcast System (EBS) in 1997. The transition was part of an effort to modernize the way alerts and emergency information are communicated to the public. EAS was designed to improve the reliability, flexibility, and efficiency of emergency messaging, ensuring that alerts could be disseminated more quickly and in a variety of formats, including audio and visual messages. This change reflected advancements in technology and an increased focus on public safety, allowing for better preparedness in emergencies.

This key date represents a significant improvement in emergency communication infrastructures in the United States, enhancing the capability of federal, state, and local authorities to inform citizens during critical situations effectively.