URISA Applauds FCC’s Unanimous Approval of Next Generation 911 Services

July 24, 2024

URISA Applauds FCC’s Unanimous Approval of Next Generation 911 Services

The Urban and Regional Information Systems Association (URISA) commends the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) for its unanimous vote in favor of the “Facilitating Implementation of Next Generation 911 Services (NG911) Report and Order.” This landmark decision sets the stage for a nationwide transition to a NG911 that relies on GIS data and technology¹ in revolutionizing emergency communication and enhancing public safety.

Key Highlights:

1. NG911 Transition Rules: The FCC’s Report and Order establishes comprehensive guidelines for implementing NG911 capabilities across networks. It defines responsibilities for OSPs (Originating Service Providers) and sets deadlines for delivering 911 calls to NG911 systems².
   
2. Improved Call Delivery: By adopting NG911 standards, emergency calls will be routed more efficiently, leading to faster response times and potentially saving lives.
   
3. Reliability and Innovation: URISA recognizes the FCC’s commitment to advancing location-based routing for wireless 911 calls. This move ensures that NG911 services remain reliable and adaptable to emerging technologies².
   
4. Public Safety Benefits: The transition to NG911 will enhance location accuracy, support multimedia data (such as text messages and images), and enable better coordination during emergencies.
   

URISA stands alongside the FCC in championing this critical milestone. We believe that NG911 will revolutionize emergency response, making communities safer and more resilient.

For more information, visit the FCC’s official document².

About URISA: URISA is a global organization dedicated to advancing the effective use of spatial information and technology in urban and regional planning, emergency management, and related fields. Our mission is to foster excellence in GIS (Geographic Information Systems) and promote the use of geospatial tools for societal benefit.

Note to Editors: URISA is an independent organization and not affiliated with the FCC. This press release reflects URISA’s perspective on the NG911 Report and Order.

¹: GIS Is Critical for NG9-1-1
²: FCC Report and Order