Kelley Drye’s Communications practice group has prepared a client advisory on the recently passed H.R. 3403, known as the “New and Emerging Technologies 911 Improvement Act of 2008.” On June 16 and June 23, 2008, the U.S. Senate and the House of Representatives, respectively, passed H.R. 3403, which will help ensure that providers of interconnected Voice-over-Internet-Protocol (“VoIP”) services have the tools they need to provide 911 to their subscribers. An overwhelming majority of both chambers passed this bill, which the President is expected to sign by July 3, 2008.

Under the Act, the Federal Communications Commission, (“FCC” or “Commission”), must promulgate regulations within 90 days to govern access to 911 services for VoIP subscribers. Additionally, the FCC must work with the IP industry and public safety organizations to develop best practices with respect to public safety issues.

Congress Passes Legislation Creating 911 Solutions for VoIP Providers