In June, the U.S. Dept. of Transportation s National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the U.S. Dept. of Commerce s National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) announced the Notice of Funding Availability for more than $40 million in grants to help states and territories improve their 9-1-1 call centers. The grants were authorized by the Ensuring Help Arrives Near Callers Employing 9-1-1 Act (ENHANCE 911 Act).
All states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico and U.S. Territories are eligible for the grants. Among other things, the funds can be used to implement technologies to deliver wireless 9-1-1 calls with automatic location information.
The joint announcement, published in theFederal Register,spells out details of the grant program, including the application and administrative requirements of the Final Rule. Applications are due Aug. 4, and the funds will be awarded in fiscal year 2009. Instructions for applicants can be found atwww.e-911ico.gov.Questions related to the application process can be directed tonational911@dot.govor 202/366-3485.