In order to see that the AMBER plan is implemented effectively, the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has adopted a special “Abducted Child Statement” event code. This code will be used within the Emergency Alert System (EAS) when the AMBER Plan is activated.

Until now, broadcasters have activated the AMBER Plan as a “Civil Emergency Message.” However, these alerts have been confused with other civil emergencies such as flood or tornado. Knowing that there is a need for consistency nationwide in implementing the AMBER plan, the FCC added this special code. 

The FCC believe this special code will not only help mobilize a community more quickly when a missing-child tragedy strikes, but it will also build on the reputation of the EAS as the most credible and reliable vehicle for providing this type of emergency information to the public. 

FCC is encouraging all broadcast stations to adopt this new code and upgrade their EAS Systems to include it to ensure that the AMBER plan is implemented effectively.