Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Richard Hudson (NC-08)
WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Representatives Richard Hudson (R-NC) and Troy Carter (D-LA) introduced the Next Generation 9-1-1 Act, bipartisan legislation to modernize the nation’s emergency communications systems, strengthen public safety, and ensure first responders have access to real-time information during emergencies.
“Every family deserves the peace of mind that all the best and most updated technology is being utilized when they dial 9-1-1, but too many call centers are still relying on outdated, legacy systems,” said Congressman Richard Hudson. “Our bipartisan legislation takes a commonsense step to modernize 9-1-1 technology, support the first responders who protect our communities, and ensure families across North Carolina and the country get the help they need when seconds matter.”
“We have fully entered the digital age, and it only makes sense that our 9-1-1 systems evolve with it. The Next Generation 9-1-1 Act is innovative, common-sense legislation that moves our nation’s legacy 9-1-1 call centers into the modern era. People rely on smartphones, tablets, and other devices in every part of their daily lives. They should be able to use them when it matters most. Public safety must remain a top priority, and it’s time to fully embrace the technology we have to save lives,” said Congressman Troy A. Carter, Sr.
Bill Overview
The Next Generation 9-1-1 Act updates and reauthorizes federal support for Next Generation 9-1-1 (NG9-1-1) systems nationwide. The legislation establishes a program at the National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) that creates a clear federal framework for upgrading legacy 9-1-1 infrastructure as appropriations become available.
The bill strengthens ongoing efforts by ensuring state and local agencies have a defined pathway to adopt advanced NG9-1-1 capabilities such as real-time location data, multimedia messaging, enhanced cybersecurity, and interoperable communications.
This modernization is essential for communities like Fort Bragg, rural regions across North Carolina facing vulnerabilities highlighted by natural disasters like Hurricane Helene, and fast-growing areas seeing higher emergency call volumes.
Why the Bill Is Needed
Research found that only 13 percent of the nation is served by NG-9-1-1-capable services, and most 9-1-1 services are relying on systems designed decades ago. These outdated platforms cannot process text messages, images, or video, even though over 85 percent of Americans now own a smartphone.
Without this legislation, emergency communications will continue to face delays, dropped calls, and limited situational awareness for first responders. With the Next Generation 9-1-1 Act, local agencies will be able to deploy modern, secure, data-driven systems that improve emergency response, protect first responders, and save lives.
Stakeholder Support
Capt. Jack Varnado, President of APCO International: “Modernizing America’s 9-1-1 systems is both a public safety necessity and a national security imperative. This legislation represents the comprehensive, forward-looking approach needed to ensure that our emergency communications system is secure, interoperable, and capable of supporting the lifesaving work 9-1-1 professionals perform every day. APCO thanks Representatives Hudson and Carter for their steadfast leadership on this critical issue.”
“We are grateful for Rep. Hudson’s leadership in promoting Next Generation 9-1-1 in the U.S. Congress,” said NENA CEO John Provenzano. “We look forward to working with Reps. Hudson and Carter (D-LA) on this important bipartisan effort as we work to ensure deployment of a nationwide Next Generation 9-1-1 system.”
“Advancing NG9-1-1 is critical to our national security and the security of our public safety network,” said Brian Davenport, Chief Strategy Officer of Intrado, the nation’s largest 9-1-1 provider. “Far too many Americans are relying on outdated technology to get the help they need when it matters most. Congressional action is necessary to ensure we can complete the transition across the country, and we applaud Congressman Hudson for his continued leadership on this issue.”
Read the full bill text [here].