PUC encourages consumers to report telephone systems that don’t meet 9-1-1 requirements

NEWS RELEASE
COLORADO DEPARTMENT OF REGULATORY AGENCIES
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The Colorado Public Utilities Commission is encouraging consumers to report multi-line telephone systems that don’t meet federal 9-1-1 requirements. Multi-line telephone systems, also called enterprise phone systems, are systems with multiple extensions and are frequently used in places such as schools, office buildings, hotels, and medical facilities.

Federal statute known as Kari’s Law and Federal Communications Commission (FCC) regulations require that multi-line telephone systems made, sold, leased, installed, or upgraded after Feb. 16, 2020 meet certain requirements. Specifically:

• Users must be able to dial 9-1-1 without first having to dial a “9” or other digit to get an outside line;
• The system must provide a valid call-back number and specific location information for extension to the 9-1-1 call center; and
• The system must provide on-site notification to a central location that a 9-1-1 call has been placed.

The Colorado Public Utilities Commission maintains an online complaint portal that individuals may use to notify the Commission of violations of these requirements. Valid complaints are relayed to the appropriate federal authorities for investigation. The form may be accessed here.  

Consumers can learn more about the FCC’s requirements for these systems here.  

About PUC

The Colorado Public Utilities Commission (PUC) serves the public interest by effectively regulating utilities and facilities so that the people of Colorado receive safe, reliable, and reasonably-priced services consistent with the economic, environmental, and social values of our state.

The Commission strives to accommodate all members of the public at its hearings and meetings by providing services for foreign language users and persons with disabilities upon receipt of a reasonable accommodation request. Requests for such accommodations should be made at least one week prior to the event by completing the Language Access Form. Requests can also be made directly by contacting Holly Bise at 303.894.2024 or by emailing [email protected].

About DORA

The Department of Regulatory Agencies (DORA) is dedicated to preserving the integrity of the marketplace and is committed to promoting a fair and competitive business environment in Colorado. Consumer protection is our mission. Visit www.dora.colorado.gov for more information or call 303-894-7855/toll free 1-800-886-7675.

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