This bill modernizes America's 911 system by funding the transition to Next Generation 911 (NG911), which uses internet-based technology instead of the older phone-based system. The new system allows people to send texts, photos, videos, and other data to 911 dispatchers—not just voice calls—making it easier to report emergencies in situations where calling isn't possible. The bill creates a federal grant program that gives money to states and tribal governments to help them build and maintain these new systems. To receive funding, states must develop detailed plans showing how they'll coordinate with local emergency centers, ensure the system works reliably across different areas and equipment, and protect against cyber attacks. The bill also establishes a cybersecurity center to help emergency services share information about security threats and creates an advisory board of emergency responders to guide the program. The federal government will oversee how the money is spent and require annual reports on progress. States must also commit to finding long-term funding sources to keep their 911 systems running after the federal grants end, and they cannot use 911 fees for non-emergency purposes.

Next Generation 9–1–1 Act

Hudson, Richard

Next Generation 9–1–1 ActThis bill establishes a grant program to support implementation of next generation 9-1-1 (NG9-1-1) systems by state, territorial, and tribal governments and requires other related activities. NG9-1-1 means a secure, interoperable, Internet Protocol-based (IP-based) system for receiving 9-1-1 requests for emergency assistance. (IP-based 9-1-1 systems have capabilities that legacy telephone systems do not, including enhanced location-finding and the ability to receive text and multimedia messages.)Under the bill, the National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) must provide grants to state, territorial, and tribal governments (and entities established by those governments) to support the implementation and maintenance of NG9-1-1 systems. Grant funds may also be used for public outreach on NG9-1-1, implementation of cybersecurity measures, and, subject to certain limits, training and administrative costs.Entities applying for grants must submit a plan for NG9-1-1 coordination and implementation that ensures interoperability and reliability, incorporates cybersecurity tools, and meets other requirements related to technology and procurement. Applicants must also certify that they have established, or will establish within a specified time frame, a sustainable funding mechanism to support NG9-1-1 and effective cybersecurity resources.The NTIA must advise applicants on the preparation of implementation plans and provide technical assistance to grant recipients.Further, the NTIA must establish (1) an advisory board to provide recommendations with respect to the grant program and other topics related to NG9-1-1; and (2) a cybersecurity center to coordinate with state, local, and regional governments on the sharing of cybersecurity information related to NG9-1-1.