Why is the implementation of the E911 system so complex?
The E911 Phase I requirements, as well as certain of the Phase II requirements, are applicable to wireless carriers only if the administrator of the designated Public Safety Answering Point (PSAP) has requested the service and is capable of receiving information provided. The PSAP must have the means of covering its costs of receiving the E911 information, however, in order to make a valid request for E911 service. Additionally, the FCC’s rules do not mandate any specific state action nor specify any particular mechanism for funding the technology and service capabilities necessary to enable the PSAP to make a valid service request – so it’s up to each individual state to develop solutions.
