Progress made on a little-known Public Service Commission rule will require many small businesses to replace their phone systems by the end of this year.
Progress Made on Changing 911 Rule to Require Phone Replacement in 2019
NFIB action was successful in delaying a little-known Public Service Commission rule that would have required many small businesses to replace their phone systems by the end of 2016. While the deadline for replacement was extended until the end of this year (December 31, 2019), the rule still needs to be changed to avoid the requirement for replacing perfectly functioning phone systems to meet new enhanced 911 emergency call requirements.
As currently written, the rule would apply to any businesses with more than 7000 square feet of space, and a multi-line phone system. NFIB has been working with 911 operators and the legislature to change the rule so that businesses with less than 20,000 square feet and 20 phones would not have to meet the requirements until they replace their current phones.
