Schiff Helps Secure Over $20 Million in Funding for Earthquake Early Warning System
FY18 Omnibus Includes $22.9 Million for ShakeAlert Development and Limited Public Rollout
Washington, DC – Today, Rep. Adam Schiff (D-Burbank) announced that a record-level $22.9 million in funding for a West Coast earthquake early warning system (EEW), also known as ShakeAlert, was included in the FY2018 omnibus spending bill which just passed the House. Schiff has led the Congressional effort to secure funding for EEW technology since 2014.
“The omnibus includes record-level funding for a West Coast earthquake early warning system. If signed into law, the additional funds will significantly build out the system, of which there will soon be a limited public roll-out this fall,” said Rep. Schiff. “The system will not only help protect infrastructure and businesses, but also prevent injuries and save lives across California, Oregon and Washington. I am grateful to my colleague, Congressman Ken Calvert, for his continued leadership and assistance in securing this vital funding.”
The FY2018 omnibus provides $12.9 million for continued development of EEW and for its first limited public rollout, a $2.7 million increase from FY2017. The spending bill also provides a one-time $10 million investment for capital costs associated with the buildout of EEW.
Schiff first secured $5 million in funding for the system in FY15. Congress increased funding to $8.2 million for FY2016 and then again to $10.2 for FY2017. It is estimated that a full system of sensors will cost $38.2 million to build out along the West Coast, with annual operating and maintenance costs of $16.1 million.
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