FCC Proposes Interstate NG911 Interoperability Testing and Video Accessibility Rules

The Proposed Rules

The Federal Communications Commission adopted a Second Further Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (Second FNPRM) on June 25, 2026, and released it on June 26, 2026, in PS Docket Nos. 21-479 and 13-75 (FCC 26-39). The document proposes two distinct lines of action: mandatory multi-party interstate interoperability testing for NG911 service providers, and a solicitation of comment on how 911 Authorities can integrate advanced technologies such as Direct Video Calling into NG911 networks to improve accessibility.

NG911 Interoperability Testing

The Commission explains that, in a companion Second Report and Order issued the same day, it adopted a definition of interoperability and one-time reporting requirements for NG911 Core Service (NGCS) providers and Emergency Services IP Network (ESInet) providers, requiring them to report on steps they have taken or plan to take to facilitate interoperability on their networks. The Commission deferred for future consideration the issues of interoperability standards, certifications, testing requirements, and annual reporting, citing the mixed nature of comments received.

In this Second FNPRM, the Commission states it continues to regard NG911 interoperability as "a foundational and essential element to full completion of the NG911 transition nationwide" and proposes to accelerate its implementation. Specifically, the Commission proposes requiring NGCS and ESInet providers, within three years of the effective date of any interoperability requirements adopted in the future, to test the transfer of 911 traffic — including voice, video, data, and text, with necessary metadata — with facilities in at least two other states and with three similar but different NGCS and ESInet providers.

The Commission explains the rationale for the testing proposal: while the record does not reflect consensus among stakeholders, the disagreements concern the details of a testing regime rather than the concept of testing itself. The proposal is designed to develop testing criteria that reflect comments advocating for objective interoperability criteria, as well as a requirement that covered 911 providers test the ability to interoperate with multiple entities across different jurisdictions. The Commission proposes to define a "successful transfer" as part of this framework.

Video Accessibility for NG911

Beyond interoperability testing, the Second FNPRM seeks comment on how 911 Authorities can integrate advanced technology such as Direct Video Calling into NG911 networks. The Commission frames this as an effort to improve accessibility for users of 911 services in NG911 jurisdictions, though it has not yet proposed specific rules on this point and is soliciting input through the comment process. Affected regulations fall under 47 CFR Part 9.

Procedural Context

The proceeding is designated a "permit-but-disclose" proceeding under the Commission's ex parte rules. Persons making ex parte presentations must file a copy of any written presentation or a memorandum summarizing any oral presentation within two business days after the presentation. Consistent with the Providing Accountability Through Transparency Act, Public Law 118-9, a summary of the Second FNPRM is available on the FCC's proposed rulemakings webpage.

What to Watch

Comments on the proposed rules are due on or before August 10, 2026. Reply comments are due on or before September 8, 2026. The full text of the document is available at the FCC's website.

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