Radio programmers and emergency communications engineers across the United States are closely monitoring SiriusXM’s decision to temporarily suspend its Required Weekly Test (RWT) for the Emergency Alert System (EAS) on its preview satellite channel. This move impacts the reliability of a redundant national alert source that many states integrate into their EAS plans, specifically the un-hosted “barker channel” used to fill gaps in the Primary Entry Point network.
Technical Partner Request Drives Suspension
The suspension began in May 2026 after a longstanding technical partner requested that SiriusXM cease retransmitting their weekly test. SiriusXM had been relaying the RWT from WTOP(FM) in Washington, D.C., a key station for national-level alerts. The company confirmed it did not require permission from the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) to end these weekly transmissions, though it remains obligated to carry national EAS alerts across all satellite channels. While the weekly tests have stopped, SiriusXM continues to relay monthly EAS tests and other required transmissions to maintain compliance with federal safety mandates.
Self-Originated Tests to Resume by Summer
SiriusXM has announced plans to originate the weekly test via its own system to ensure the public continues benefiting from this critical safety service. The company expects weekly EAS testing on its satellite network to resume by the end of summer 2026. Larry Wilkins, chairman of the Alabama State Emergency Communications Committee, stated that a self-originated test represents the best outcome for all parties. He noted that Alabama’s EAS monitor service, which tracks nearly 200 units, includes SiriusXM receptions to verify source functionality. This transition allows SiriusXM to purchase and install its own EAS unit, maintaining its two-decade history of supporting public safety entities and collaborating with FEMA during natural disasters like hurricanes and wildfires.
Observers suggest that any disruption for broadcasters will be minimized once the new system activates later this year. The “barker channel,” which typically features an audio loop to promote satellite subscriptions to new vehicle buyers, will return to its standard function while serving as a verified alert source once the self-originated tests begin. This strategic shift ensures that radio engineers can continue to rely on SiriusXM as a working source for national emergency alerts without relying on third-party retransmission.
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