Next Generation 9–1–1 Act

This bill proposes to establish a grant program through the National Telecommunications and Information Administration to help state, territorial, and tribal governments implement and maintain Next Generation 9-1-1 (NG9-1-1) systems. These internet-based systems would allow emergency services to receive text and multimedia messages and utilize enhanced location-finding capabilities. The legislation would also require the creation of a cybersecurity center to share information on digital threats and an advisory board to provide recommendations on the grant program and system implementation.

This bill affects state, territorial, and tribal governments, as well as entities established by those governments, which are eligible to receive grants for implementing and maintaining Next Generation 9-1-1 systems. The National Telecommunications and Information Administration is also affected, as it is tasked with administering the grant program, providing technical assistance, and establishing both an advisory board and a cybersecurity center. Additionally, the legislation impacts local and regional governments through the coordination and sharing of cybersecurity information.

• Establishment of Next Generation 9-1-1 grant program. The National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) must provide grants to state, territorial, and tribal governments to support the implementation and maintenance of secure, IP-based emergency communication systems. These systems enable enhanced location-finding and the ability to receive text and multimedia messages.
• Authorized uses for grant funding. Recipients may use funds for NG9-1-1 implementation, public outreach, and cybersecurity measures. Funding may also be applied toward training and administrative costs, subject to specific limitations.
• Requirements for grant applicants. Entities must submit implementation plans that ensure interoperability and reliability while incorporating cybersecurity tools. Applicants are also required to certify the establishment of sustainable funding mechanisms for NG9-1-1 and cybersecurity resources.
• Creation of an NG9-1-1 advisory board. The NTIA is directed to establish an advisory board to provide recommendations regarding the grant program and other matters related to modernizing emergency communication systems.
• Establishment of a cybersecurity center. The bill requires the creation of a center to coordinate with state, local, and regional governments on the sharing of cybersecurity information specifically related to NG9-1-1 systems.

The bill aims to modernize emergency services by establishing a grant program to support state, territorial, and tribal governments in implementing and maintaining Next Generation 9-1-1 (NG9-1-1) systems. These secure, Internet Protocol-based systems are intended to improve emergency response through enhanced location-finding, the ability to process text and multimedia messages, and the integration of advanced cybersecurity measures.