Yesterday, U.S. Senators Nelson (FL) and Klobuchar (MN) released a draft bill, the “Next Generation 9-1-1 Act of 2017,” to further deployment of NG9-1-1 services and enhance and upgrade the nation’s 9-1-1 systems.  Senator Nelson is the ranking member of the Senate Commerce, Science, and Transportation Committee, and Senator Klobuchar is a co-chair of the Congressional NextGen 9-1-1 Caucus.

This draft bill addresses critical needs for the 9-1-1 community, and aligns with priorities APCO has long advocated, for accomplishing a full transition to NG9-1-1.  APCO is especially supportive of provisions recognizing the need for standards and resources to support PSAPs.  9-1-1 professionals deserve the benefits of accredited, consensus-based standards to ensure services and equipment match the level of innovation and cost efficiencies enjoyed in the consumer marketplace, akin to the path Congress set for FirstNet.  Further, the draft recognizes the need to reserve governance and control to states and localities, and the imperative of cybersecurity.  A modernized 9-1-1 system is a national public safety and homeland security priority.

APCO was pleased to contribute its viewpoints as this draft was developed, and looks forward to continued discussions with the offices of Senators Nelson and Klobuchar, as well as with Chairman Thune and other members of the Senate Commerce Committee, Congressional NextGen 9-1-1 Caucus co-chairs and members, and other Senate and House offices.

You can view the discussion draft here.  Stay tuned for additional information on how you can share your views and suggestions with APCO staff.