In a unanimous decision on Thursday, the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) mandated broader categories of telecommunication providers to report network outages to a nationwide system managed by the FCC following disasters.

Enhancing Outage Data Collection

Commissioners voted unanimously to enact both an order and potential regulations to enhance outage data reporting. This move comes as a response to inconsistent data received by the agency during disasters, hindering emergency responses due to the lack of comprehensive information on communication network downtimes.

FCC Chair Jessica Rosenworcel emphasized the critical importance of this data, highlighting gaps in coverage and participation among providers. "Not every provider files data with us. Not every technology is covered by our rules. And I think these gaps are unacceptable," Rosenworcel stated.

Expanding Data Collection Scope

Commissioner Anna Gomez echoed Rosenworcel's sentiments, stressing the necessity of evaluating network performance during emergencies to ensure effective disaster responses and continuous service provision to affected communities.

The newly passed rule mandates cable, wireline, wireless, and interconnected Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) providers to report daily to the Disaster Information Reporting System (DIRS) during active periods in areas they serve. This requirement aims to prevent duplication, relieving providers from reporting to both DIRS and the Network Outage Reporting System (NORS) simultaneously.

Wireless Routing for Emergency Calls

Additionally, in a unanimous decision, FCC commissioners mandated all wireless carriers to implement nationwide location-based routing for wireless calls and real-time texts to 911 call centers. This rule, effective within six months for national carriers and 24 months for others, ensures emergency calls are directed based on the caller's location rather than the serving cell tower, reducing response delays and misrouting issues.

Commissioner Geoffrey Starks emphasized the significance of this decision, noting that current tower-based routing often directs emergency calls to incorrect jurisdictions, impacting millions of calls annually.

FCC outage reporting request: Addressing Satellite Compliance and Orbital Debris

Furthermore, the commission issued an order providing guidance to satellite operators on complying with FCC rules concerning orbital debris. This move aims to offer clarity on satellite maneuverability disclosure requirements, the use of deployment devices, and restrictions on releasing persistent liquids in space. FCC Chair Rosenworcel presented this guidance as part of the FCC's efforts to bolster U.S. investment in space industries, including the establishment of a Space Bureau to streamline satellite license applications.

FCC outage reporting request: Advancements in Spectrum Bands

Prior to Thursday's session, the FCC also adopted an order to update regulations for the 70, 80, and 90 GHz spectrum bands, aiming to enhance broadband access on ships and aircraft, along with backhaul services for 5G wireless.

The FCC's decisions mark significant strides in fortifying communication networks' resilience during emergencies while facilitating advancements in space technologies and spectrum utilization.