D-BLOC Act

3/9/2023, 5:47 PM

Summary of Bill HR 3698

Bill 117 hr 3698, also known as the D-BLOC Act, is a piece of legislation introduced in the US Congress. The purpose of this bill is to address the issue of interoperability among public safety communications networks.

The D-BLOC Act aims to establish a dedicated public safety broadband spectrum, known as the D Block, which would be used exclusively for first responders and emergency personnel. This spectrum would allow for more efficient and effective communication during emergencies and natural disasters.

Additionally, the bill seeks to allocate funding for the deployment and maintenance of this dedicated spectrum, as well as for the development of new technologies and equipment to support public safety communications. Overall, the D-BLOC Act is designed to improve the coordination and communication capabilities of first responders and emergency personnel, ultimately enhancing public safety and response efforts in times of crisis.

Congressional Summary of HR 3698

Don't BLock Our Communities Act or the D-BLOC Act

This bill prohibits railroad carriers from obstructing travel at public highway-rail crossings for more than 10 minutes, except under limited circumstances (e.g., safety issues).

The Department of Transportation (DOT) must investigate and send notices to carriers of repeated incidents; carriers are subject to civil penalties for violations that occur after having received notice. DOT must also establish a national database for the public to report such incidents.

Current Status of Bill HR 3698

Bill HR 3698 is currently in the status of Bill Introduced since June 4, 2021. Bill HR 3698 was introduced during Congress 117 and was introduced to the House on June 4, 2021.  Bill HR 3698's most recent activity was Referred to the Subcommittee on Highways and Transit. as of June 7, 2021

Bipartisan Support of Bill HR 3698

Total Number of Sponsors
1
Democrat Sponsors
1
Republican Sponsors
0
Unaffiliated Sponsors
0
Total Number of Cosponsors
8
Democrat Cosponsors
8
Republican Cosponsors
0
Unaffiliated Cosponsors
0

Policy Area and Potential Impact of Bill HR 3698

Primary Policy Focus

Transportation and Public Works

Alternate Title(s) of Bill HR 3698

D-BLOC ActTo amend title 49, United States Code, to limit railroad carriers from blocking railway-highway crossings, and for other purposes.D-BLOC ActDon’t BLock Our Communities Act
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