Press Release
PUC Commissioner Witmer Named to FCC’s Communications Security, Reliability and Interoperability Council
Published on 5/17/2013
Filed under: Telecommunications
HARRISBURG – On the heels of a Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission (PUC) partnership with state and federal offices to host a Cyber Resiliency Workshop for private sector utility information security professionals, the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) Chairman Julius Genachowski named PUC Commissioner Pamela A. Witmer to its Communications Security, Reliability, and Interoperability Council (CSRIC).
The CSRIC is a federal advisory committee that will provide recommendations to the Commission regarding best practices and actions the FCC may take to ensure the security, reliability, and interoperability of communications systems.
“We face tremendous challenges as we seek ways to maintain the continued level of service our consumers demand while ensuring the security of the system,” said Commissioner Witmer, who is leading cybersecurity efforts at the PUC. “This is an issue the PUC has taken an active role in for our state and our region. I thank Chairman Genachowski for the opportunity for Pennsylvania to play a role nationally.”
The 59-member CSRIC represents a diverse and balanced mix of viewpoints from public safety organizations; federal, state and local government agencies; the communications industry; organizations representing Internet users; utility companies; public interest organizations; and other experts. Commissioner Witmer was one of two state utility regulators named to the council.
On March 19, 2013, pursuant to the Federal Advisory Committee Act, the FCC renewed the CSRIC charter for a period of two years, through March 18, 2015. Under the charter, CSRIC’s duties may include:
- Developing and recommending best practices and actions the FCC can take to promote reliable communications services, including 911, Enhanced 911, and Next Generation 911 service.
- Identifying and recommending to the FCC a set of best practices and actions the FCC can take to make communications networks, including broadband networks and Voice over Internet Protocol systems, more secure and resilient.
- Developing recommendations for actions the FCC should take to enhance the ability of the public to receive timely and accurate emergency alerts and warnings.
- Making recommendations with respect to such additional topics as the FCC may specify.
The Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission balances the needs of consumers and utilities; ensures safe and reliable utility service at reasonable rates; protects the public interest; educates consumers to make independent and informed utility choices; furthers economic development; and fosters new technologies and competitive markets in an environmentally sound manner.
For recent news releases and video of select Commission proceedings or more information about the PUC, visit our website at www.puc.pa.gov. Follow the PUC on Twitter – @PA_PUC for all things utility. “Like” PAPowerSwitch on Facebook for easy access to information on electric shopping.
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