Legislation on Shark Attack Alerts Passed by U.S. Senate

A year after a teenager from Mountain Brook nearly lost her life in a shark attack in the Florida Panhandle, the U.S. Senate has approved a measure for cell phone alerts concerning such incidents.

Senator Katie Britt praised the passing of “Lulu’s Law” on Tuesday. This bipartisan bill, named in honor of 16-year-old Lulu Gribbin, aims to direct the Federal Communications Commission to create a process for issuing emergency alerts related to shark attacks. “For more than a year since Lulu survived the near-fatal shark attack, we couldn’t see the Senate pass this law unanimously,” Britt remarked. “Lulu’s grit, strength, and faith have truly influenced our country. Her resolve to support other families and beachgoers is amazing. Lulu’s law is a common-sense measure that enables authorities to quickly and accurately share vital information.”

Britt expressed gratitude towards her colleagues, including minority leader Chuck Schumer and Senator Brian Schatz, who supported the legislation.

Specifically, the law facilitates the rapid dissemination of alerts from various authorities when a shark attack occurs, or when conditions heighten the risk of such incidents, via mobile notifications.

“We are deeply grateful for Senator Britt’s leadership in honor of his daughter to ensure the unanimous Senate passage of Lulu’s law,” shared Lulu’s parents, Anne Blair and Joe Gribbin. “Lulu is truly a miracle. The way she has adjusted to her new lifestyle and used her experience to advocate for beachgoers is remarkable.”

They urged the House of Representatives to pass this practical law, which aims to prevent future shark attacks.

Lulu’s law has gained substantial bipartisan support in the Senate. Senators from diverse backgrounds, including Tommy Tuberville, Brian Schatz, and others, have shown their support for the legislation. In the House, U.S. Representative Gary Palmer introduced similar measures, indicating strong community backing.