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WASHINGTON, DC – Today, the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) took important steps to protect consumers as the technology used to route their phone communications and continues to evolve. With the release of two items at today’s Open Meeting, the FCC lays the groundwork for evaluating proposals from carriers who wish to move away from the “public switched telephone network” (PSTN) to a network where calls are routed using IP protocols, and also proposes rules to make sure consumers have continued access to reliable 911 service.

The following statement can be attributed to Sarah Morris, Senior Policy Counsel for ������Ƶ’s Open Technology Institute:

“The evolution of technology cannot mean the expiration of the FCC’s duty to protect consumers. OTI is therefore pleased that the FCC proposed rules today that would help keep consumer interests at the of policy decisions related to technological transitions of our communications networks. Having reliable and affordable phone access to call a loved one, field job inquiries, stay in touch with childcare and education facilities, and generally function in today’s society is critical. So too is reliable access to emergency 911 services. The rules proposed today are an important step in preserving that access.”

Expert Contact

Sarah Morris
Senior Policy Counsel, Open Technology Institute, ������Ƶ
(402) 680-8854
sarmorris@opentechinstitute.org

Media Contact

Jenny Mallamo
Media Relations, ������Ƶ
(202) 596-3368
mallamo@newamerica.org