Next Generation 9–1–1 Act

Next Generation 9-1-1 Act – Plain English Summary

The Next Generation 9-1-1 Act is a bill focused on modernizing the country's emergency call system. The current 9-1-1 infrastructure in many parts of the United States is decades old and relies on outdated technology. This bill would work to upgrade that system to what is known as "Next Generation 9-1-1" (NG911) — a modern, internet-based network that can handle not just phone calls, but also text messages, photos, videos, and other digital communications that today's smartphones are capable of sending.

The bill would likely provide funding, set standards, and establish a coordinated plan to help state and local governments make this transition. One of the key goals is to ensure that when someone calls or contacts 9-1-1, emergency dispatchers receive better, faster, and more accurate information — which can be critical in life-or-death situations. For example, someone in danger who cannot safely speak out loud could send a text or video instead of making a voice call.

This legislation would affect virtually every American, since nearly everyone may need to contact emergency services at some point. It would also directly impact local emergency call centers (known as Public Safety Answering Points, or PSAPs), first responders, and the telecommunications companies involved in routing emergency communications. The bill is currently moving through the House committee process and has not yet been voted on by the full Congress.