In previous editions of the ICORE Blog (4/26/24 and 7/24/24) we reported on steps taken by the FCC related to the transition to Next Generation 911 (NG911). In an Order dated July 18, 2024, the FCC adopted rules requiring 911 Authorities and Originating Service Providers (OSP) to begin or continue the transition to NG911 following a two-phased approach initiated by a valid request made to an OSP by a 911 Authority. Please note the following:
Phase 1 – Upon receipt of a valid Phase 1 request from a 911 Authority, an OSP must begin delivery of 911 traffic in IP-based Session Initiation Protocol (SIP) to the in-state NG911 delivery points designated by the 911 Authority.
Phase 2 – Upon receipt of a valid Phase 2 request from a 911 Authority, OSPs must deliver 911 traffic in IP-based SIP format including location information embedded in the call signaling using Presence Information Data Format – Location Object or the functional equivalent. Also, OSPs must be able to use a Location Information Server or its functional equivalent for the verification of its customer location information and records.
From a timing perspective, large OSPs will have six months to comply with a valid Phase 1 and or Phase 1 request. Small OSPs, including rural incumbent LECs will have one year to comply with a Phase 1 or Phase 2 request. The Order also states that OSPs and 911 Authorities are permitted to enter into mutual agreements that modify the Phase 1 and 2 terms and timelines. In addition, the Order addresses the issue of the responsibility for the costs of the implementation of NG911 to be borne by OSPs and the 911 Authorities.
The July 18th 2024 Order stipulated that the new rules created by the Order would become effective 60 days after publication in the Federal Register. The new rules were published in the Federal Register on September 24, 2024, and as such became effective November 25, 2024. The July 18, 2024 Order, however, also stated that compliance with the specific rules defining the requirements and certifications by 911 Authorities that must be in place prior to the issuance of a valid Phase1 and Phase 2 request and the process for appeals of requests by OSPs would not be required until there is approval of these new rules by the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) under the Paperwork Reduction Act (PRA). In addition, compliance with the specific rules regarding mutual agreements between 911 Authorities and OSPs is also not presently required pending OMB approval. In that regard, the Public Safety and Homeland Security Bureau has initiated the OMB review process of these specific sections of the new rules via a notice in the Federal Register on October 15, 2024, seeking PRA comments. Comments are due December 16, 2024. Upon OMB approval, the FCC will provide notice in the Federal Register announcing OMB approval of these specific sections of the new rules and the compliance date for these provisions.
