TRS and EAS Filings

Further Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (FCC 04-137) on Telecommunications Relay Services TRS).

On October 18, 2004 the Wireless RERC, in response to the FCC’s Further Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (FCC 04-137) on TRS recommended that the FCC further encourage and support IP Relay and comparable text messaging services for wireless devices. The Wireless RERC also recommended making IP Relay mandatory for states, requiring services to be offered 24 hours per day, 7 days per week, and promoting open standards that will allow multiple platforms for text-to-text communication to flourish. The Wireless RERC suggested that the FCC encourage wireless manufacturers to build-in TTY capability so as to enable more reliable emergency communications for users with disabilities.

Telecommunications Relay Services and Speech-to-Speech Services for Individuals with Hearing and Speech Disabilities, Second Report and Order, Order on Reconsideration, and Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (FCC 03-112).

On October 9, 2003 the Wireless RERC submitted reply comments to an FCC Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (FCC 03-112) regarding telecommunications relay services (TRS) and the requirements set forth in the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990. In responding to comments filed by various advocacy groups for the deaf and hard of hearing, the Wireless RERC emphasized to the FCC the importance of providing parity of service with respect to emergency communications. Additionally, the Wireless RERC recommended expanding TRS requirements so as to allow text messages to become a regular part of emergency communication systems.

Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (FCC 04-189) about the future of the Emergency Alert System (EAS)

On October 29, 2004 – The Wireless RERC submitted comments to the FCC's Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (FCC 04-189) about the future of the Emergency Alert System (EAS). The comments recommended a major upgrade of EAS, including mandatory participation by broadcast stations and an expansion of EAS rules to cover new digital technologies. Further, expanding EAS to new devices is essential for providing emergency information to people with disabilities. New technological pathways for EAS communications include wireless data networks that reach millions of Americans in remote locations, both fixed and mobile. The Wireless RERC also recommended more comprehensive planning and coordination among state and federal agencies and focused on the benefits of digital and alternative technologies for people with disabilities.