On March 27, 2025, the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) adopted a Further Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (FNPRM) aimed at enhancing the resiliency, reliability, interoperability, and accessibility of Next Generation 911 (NG911) networks. As NG911 evolves to support a full range of 911 communications, including voice, text, data, and video, the FCC is particularly focused on ensuring that individuals with disabilities have improved access to emergency services.
Accessibility Considerations in the FNPRM
The FCC seeks comment on several key accessibility issues, including:
- Interoperability for Non-Voice 911 Services: Ensuring NG911 systems fully support text, video, and multimedia capabilities to improve 911 access for people with disabilities.
- Text-to-911 Enhancements: Implementing new interoperable text messaging protocols, such as Rich Communications Service (RCS), to expand text-based emergency communication options.
- Sign-Language Communication Transmission:
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- Supporting relay services, including Video Relay Service (VRS);
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- Facilitating three-way video relay interactions between 911 callers, sign language interpreters, and emergency call center representatives;
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- Enabling Direct Video Calling (DVC) for sign language users to communicate directly with 911 call center personnel.
- Support for IP-Based Relay Services: Ensuring NG911 networks accommodate voice, text, and video calls via Internet Protocol (IP)-based relay services such as VRS and IP Relay.
Implications for Clients
These proposed enhancements could significantly impact how telecommunications providers, technology companies, and other stakeholders support NG911 accessibility. Most notably, the proposed rules, if adopted, could force providers that still rely on legacy networks to invest substantially in technology upgrades and operational adjustments. Therefore, companies operating in this space should evaluate how these potential changes might affect their operations, compliance obligations, and service offerings.
The FCC will announce the comment deadlines at a later date. We are closely monitoring the developments of this proceeding and will provide updates as they become available.
The CommLaw Group Can Help!
Companies interested in shaping these critical accessibility policies should begin carefully assessing their positions and prepare to submit comments. Our firm is available to assist clients in drafting and filing comments to ensure their perspectives are considered in this rulemaking. If your organization would like to engage with the FCC on this proceeding, please contact us to discuss next steps.
Michal Nowicki – Tel: 703-714-1311 / E-mail: mjn@commlawgroup.com
