As reported by John Drummond, Government Relations Legal Intern, IAFC Government Relations & Policy, on June 18, the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) adopted Report and Order FCC 24-78 to facilitate the transition to Next Generation 911 (NG911).
NG911 utilizes an IP-based system that enables the transmission of texts, photos, and videos to emergency centers, enhancing the capabilities of traditional 911 services.
The newly adopted order establishes a structured approach detailing readiness criteria, implementation phases, and cost responsibilities to ensure a smooth transition nationwide.
The framework introduces essential definitions to clarify roles and responsibilities during the NG911 implementation.
A “911 Authority” refers to a governmental entity overseeing the communication networks that receive and transmit 911 traffic to Public Safety Answering Points (PSAPs).
“NG911 Delivery Points” are designated locations where service providers deliver 911 traffic in IP format to Emergency Services IP networks (ESInets) or related facilities.
The transition to NG911 is divided into two distinct phases to organize the implementation process effectively.
In Phase 1, upon request from a 911 Authority, service providers are required to start delivering 911 traffic in IP-based Session Initiation Protocol (SIP) format to specified NG911 Delivery Points.
Phase 2 commences when the 911 Authority certifies readiness to receive SIP-formatted traffic compliant with NG911 standards and confirms connection to an NG911 Core Services network.
Service providers have designated timeframes to comply with each phase after receiving valid requests from 911 Authorities.
Nationwide CMRS providers, covered text providers, interconnected VoIP providers, and certain wireline providers have six months to implement changes, while other providers are allotted 12 months.
In the absence of alternative agreements, service providers are responsible for costs associated with transmitting 911 traffic to NG911 Delivery Points, and 911 Authorities manage the costs of forwarding this traffic to PSAPs.
The Federal Communications Commission has adopted Report and Order FCC 24-78 to support the nationwide transition to Next Generation 911 services.
This initiative introduces an IP-based system allowing enhanced communication methods, including text, photo, and video transmissions to emergency centers.
The implementation is organized into two phases, each with specific readiness criteria and timelines tailored to different service providers.
Clear definitions outline the roles of 911 Authorities and NG911 Delivery Points in the process.
Cost allocation is addressed, assigning financial responsibilities for transmitting and processing 911 traffic between service providers and 911 Authorities.
The International Association of Fire Chiefs has expressed appreciation for the FCC’s efforts in advancing emergency response capabilities across the United States.
