WASHINGTON, DC - Subcommittee on Communications and Technology Chairman Marsha Blackburn (R-TN) issued the following statement after the National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) announced an $110 million grant program to support the transition to Next Generation 9-1-1 technologies.
“Today’s announcement is welcome progress to help law enforcement and Public Safety Answering Points nationwide fully realize Next Generation 9-1-1 capabilities. It is critical for the nation’s 9-1-1 network to keep pace with 21st century technology, allowing that lifesaving call to take the form of voice, text, or video. This committee has been at the forefront of promoting Next Generation 9-1-1 and we will continue our efforts to deliver it to every corner of the country," said #SubCommTech Chairman Blackburn.
Background:
Recent #SubCommTech hearings, including the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) oversight hearing and a hearing on the draft NTIA Reauthorization Act, have focused on enhancing public safety communications and advancing the deployment of Next Generation 9-1-1.
Further, full committee Chairman Greg Walden (R-OR), #SubCommTech Chairman Blackburn, and #SubOversight Chairman Gregg Harper (R-MS) sent a letter last month to the FCC seeking an update on 9-1-1 fee diversion and its impact on public safety.
