Cell Providers Face Fines for Not Living Up to 911 Requirements
The U.S. government has said it plans to fine Sprint, U.S. Cellular and Alltel to the tune of $2.8 million for failing to live up to expectations when it comes to emergency 911 service. A government requirement that went into effect in 2005 stipulates that all U.S. cell providers equip 95 percent of their customers with cell phones capable of providing a location in a 911 emergency -- a requirement the aforementioned companies have yet to fulfill. While it's not known what percentage of subscribers do have this enhanced emergency capability, the government has said that the providers have "failed to meet this critical deadline by a significant margin." So, we're guessing it's not a few points. The problem with the regulation is that it requires customers to upgrade their phones. This is something that providers like Sprint can encourage with incentives and even free phones, but can't necessarily force customers to do. Back in 2005, many cell providers asked for an extension for just this reason, but the government has lost patience and time is finally up.
So, if you're one of those people who hasn't upgraded that ancient, brick-sized analog cell phone from 10 years ago, maybe you should. If not for the good of your cell provider, then at least for your own good during an emergency.
From BetaNews
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Reader Comments (Page 1 of 1)
jess @ Sep 4th 2007 4:07PM
People do not up-grade because most cell companies will only let you do so when the contract is up; otherwise you will pay 4 times what the cell phome actually costs!! Take Verizon, to get the Chocolate phone, you will have to pay up to $399.00, unless you are a new customer, or you wait until your contract expires so they can try to get you locked in for another 2 years! From what I have heard from other providers, they do the same thing!
lilag @ Sep 4th 2007 5:33PM
Another reason NOT to upgrade your analog phone is that it results in no service in rural areas.
That has happened to both my mother and me.
CynthiaE @ Sep 4th 2007 8:19PM
Get rid of that brick! I sure hope 911 can find me if I am in an emergency.
petiteprincess @ Sep 4th 2007 9:13PM
OMG what is wrong with the world. We pay $300 dollars for the coolest new cell phones to find out that they don't work in emergency situations!
Gwen @ Oct 25th 2007 11:32AM
I believe you can upgrade without your contract expiring.
I received a new speaker phone at the Sprint kiosk in a Costco store. All I had to do was agree to extend my contract for an additional two years.