Direct-dial access to 9-1-1 required by Sept. 1

Owners of multi-line telephone systems (MLTS) in Texas are now required to provide direct-dial access to 9-1-1 without having to dial an additional digit such as 9 first before getting an outside line. Business service users (BSUs) of MLTS have until Sept. 1 to comply. Senate Bill 788, also known as Kari’s Law, which requires direct access to 9-1-1, was signed into law by Governor Greg Abbott on May 15, 2015. On March 1, 2016, the Commission on State Emergency Communications adopted Rule 251.16 (Direct Access to 9-1-1 Service) to implement Kari’s Law.

“I signed Kari’s Law to ensure that all Texans have the ability to access 9-1-1 services no matter where they find themselves during an emergency,” said Governor Abbott. “This important change to Texas law is only as good as the compliance that follows. The use of multi-line telephone systems should not impede on anyone’s ability to make a life-saving phone call, and I am urging all business service users employing an MLTS to ensure they are compliant. Lives depend on your cooperation.”

To continue reading this article, purchase the print edition of The Steel Country Bee or go to our online e-edition at: http://www.etypeservices.com/Daingerfield%20BeeID312/