The Federal Communication Commission said it will move ahead with developing a plan to require emergency 911 calling capability on VoIP phones.
The FCC's announcement to have 911 in place for all phones comes after Verizon and SBC already have stated that they will speed the process of providing VoIP access to 911.
Despite such movement within the industry, FCC chairman Kevin Martin said he still will propose requirements for providers to ensure that the actions are going forward.
Emergency Services
The focus on 911 for VoIP was prompted by reports that VoIP users were having trouble reaching emergency services like police and fire departments.
The FCC also has expressed concern after hearing about lawsuits against Vonage, in which users sued the company for inadequately warning them about the potential inability to dial 911 through its services in an emergency.
Martin has noted that a plan will be under review, and could be unveiled as early as next month.
Tag Team
In response to growing attention over the VoIP limitations, SBC recently offered to negotiate an agreement with Vonage, connecting the company to the SBC 911 infrastructure  .
SBC had initially planned to try out a Vonage 911 system last summer, but backed out without disclosing details about why it ended the trial.
As the FCC involvement grows, it is likely that all VoIP providers will be involved in similar access deals to meet governmental requirements.
Local Efforts
While waiting for the FCC or other regulators to introduce 911 legislation, some grassroots groups have been trying to draw attention to the problem.
"We know that Internet phone companies are working to ensure that all VoIP phones have access to full 911 service ," said Marlys Davis, E-911 program manager for an initiative being done in King County, Washington. "But it will take time before the service is available for all phones."
Until then, Davis and others are concerned that consumers are not properly informed about the lack of 911 capability in some VoIP phones.
"Internet phones look the same as regular telephones," she said. "And even if you understand that 911 doesn't work with your VoIP, someone else in the house, like a babysitter, might not know that."
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