H.R. 6505: Next Generation 9–1–1 Act

The bill titled the Next Generation 9–1–1 Act proposes amendments to enhance the deployment and coordination of a modern 9-1-1 emergency response system known as Next Generation 9–1–1 (NG911). The key provisions of the bill are summarized below:

Coordination and Communication Improvement

The bill requires the Assistant Secretary of the National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) to improve coordination and communication during the implementation of NG911. This includes:

• Consultation with State contacts to enhance communication
• Development and dissemination of information on best practices and technology for NG911
• Assistance to eligible entities in preparing their implementation plans
• Provision of technical assistance and oversight for grant usage
• Annual reporting to Congress on the activities related to NG911 implementation

Establishment of Grant Programs

The bill establishes a grant program to fund eligible entities for various activities, including:

• Implementation and maintenance of NG911 systems
• Training related to NG911 operation and maintenance
• Public outreach to educate the public on NG911
• Administrative planning costs
• Cybersecurity measures at emergency communications centers

Eligible entities include states, tribes, and designated public authorities.

Application Requirements for Grants

Entities applying for grants must submit a detailed application including:

• Coordination with local emergency communication centers
• Designation of a point of contact for NG911 implementation
• A comprehensive plan for interoperability and cybersecurity measures

Criteria for Grant Selection

The Assistant Secretary will outline selection criteria for granting funds, which will focus on performance requirements, project completion schedules, and may allow for regional or multi-state applications.

Next Generation 9–1–1 Cybersecurity Center

A cybersecurity center specifically for NG911 will be established, which will work with various government entities to share information, analyze threats, and develop guidelines for preventing cybersecurity breaches related to NG911 operations.

Advisory Board Establishment

An advisory board will be established to provide recommendations on regulations and technical requirements for NG911. The board will consist of representatives from public safety, law enforcement, fire services, and emergency medical services to ensure diverse input and expertise.

Funding and Appropriations

The bill authorizes appropriations for the necessary amounts to carry out the provisions related to NG911 for fiscal years 2026 through 2030. A limit on administrative costs from these appropriations is also included, ensuring that most of the funding is directed towards the actual implementation of NG911.

Prohibitions and Penalties

Grant funds cannot be used for activities related to the First Responder Network Authority, nor can they benefit individuals prohibited from receiving government grants for national security reasons. Penalties are established for entities providing false information in grant applications, including ineligibility for future grant funding.

Definitions

The bill includes various definitions to clarify terminology related to the implementation and functions of NG911, ensuring a clear understanding of terms like "emergency communications center," "interoperability," and "sustainable funding mechanism."

Relevant Companies

• T - AT&T Inc.: As a major telecommunications company, AT&T could be significantly impacted through its role in upgrading infrastructure to support NG911.
• VZ - Verizon Communications Inc.: Similar to AT&T, Verizon's telecommunications infrastructure and services may need enhancements in response to the requirements of NG911.