07/10/2025
Public Notice: Call for Comments on 911 Network Accessibility
The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) is seeking input on improving the accessibility of the 911 network for individuals with disabilities. Your insights are invaluable in shaping a more inclusive emergency response system.
Deadline for Comments: July 21, 2025
The FCC is particularly interested in comments regarding:
- Ensuring that NG911 systems support interoperability for non-voice 911 services, with specific emphasis on text, video, and multimedia capabilities that support 911 access for people with disabilities.
- New interoperable text messaging protocols, such as Rich Communications Service (RCS), for text-to-911 calls.
- The accessibility of sign-language communications in NG911 environments, including through:
--- Relay services, including video relay service (VRS);
--- Three-way video relay services with the 911 caller, a sign language interpreter, and a 911 call handler; and
--- Direct video calling (DVC) between a sign language user calling 911 and a 911 call center handler who is both fluent in sign language and trained in handling emergency calls.
Expanding the capabilities of current Internet Protocol-based relay services to support video 911 calls.
We encourage all stakeholders to participate in this important dialogue. Your voice matters in ensuring that everyone has equal access to emergency services.
Interested parties may file comments by accessing the FCC’s Electronic Comment Filing System at https://www.fcc.gov/ecfs/filings/. All filings must reference PS Docket Nos. 21-479 and 13-75. People with disabilities who need assistance to file comments online may request assistance by email to [email protected].
