I'm surprised this didn't get a lot of play when I first saw it on Rich Tehrani's blog, but the U.S. Senate has passed a bill making it so VoIP providers can get equal access to the public safety answering points (PSAPs) to provide proper 911 emergency services. The House of Representatives also passed a similar bill last fall. It should be fairly easy reconcile both bills so they can be sent to the President for his signature.

According to the Senate bill, access the PSAPs must be made available on the same rates, terms, and conditions provided to commercial mobile service providers. The bill would also ensure the FCC actually has the authority to enforce this rule, or delegate it to state or local authorities that are responsible for emergency communications.

I guess it will be big news when the President actuallys signs legislation.

Photo © richardmasoner