CTIA reaches out to APCO, NENA on E-911

WASHINGTON, D.C. - The Cellular Telecommunications & Internet Association (CTIA) yesterday responded to a letter written by the Boards of Directors of NENA and APCO, dated July 2, 2001. CTIA's reply elaborates on the challenges both the industry and the Public Safety Answering Points (PSAPs) face in implementing E 9-1-1 Phase II and suggests a number of solutions the PSAPs and industry can pursue. The letter states, "The wireless industry is committed to the successful implementation of E 9-1-1 services," and that, "Public Safety must address its own list of implementation issues if we are to deliver on our joint commitment of providing enhanced wireless emergency services." To that end, the letter makes a number of suggestions that can improve carrier-to-PSAP communication and Phase II implementation. The letter calls for: * The existence of cost recovery mechanisms and procedures to fund the deployment of wireless E 9-1-1 services, * A centralized entity that could support planning, readiness activities, and coordination of Phase II implementation across the state * A technology- or platform-neutral approach predicated on standards-based implementation. The letter also suggests that "best practices" should be better-publicized and then pursued. In addition, the letter offers CTIA's assistance to the PSAPs' technical standards committee. The letter notes that the risks of non-implementation are great, "As Phase II services begin to be developed in some of the more sophisticated call centers, the lack of even Phase I in other areas will risk creating a 'Safety Divide' with even more consequences than those associated with the 'Digital Divide.'"