Should Alberta Update Its 911 Grant Rules for Text-to-911?

Official title: Emergency 911 Grants Regulation engagement

Closed Regulations & Permits Health & Safety Technology & Digital
Alberta is updating how it funds 911 call centres to prepare for Next Generation 911. By March 2027, Canadians will be able to text 911 instead of just calling. The province asked call centres whether grant rules should change to support this new technology.

Why This Matters

Ever tried calling 911 when you couldn't speak safely? Text-to-911 could be a lifesaver for domestic violence victims, people with hearing impairments, or anyone in a situation where talking would put them at risk. This consultation shapes how Alberta funds the transition.

What Could Change

The regulation may expand the definition of a '911 call' to include texts and other media. Grant eligibility rules could be tightened to ensure only Alberta-based call centres receive funding. These changes would support the national March 2027 deadline for Next Generation 911.

Key Issues

  • Should the definition of a '911 call' be expanded to include texts and other media?
  • Should grant eligibility be limited to Alberta-based call centres only?

What Happened

The province contacted all of Alberta's Public Safety Answering Points directly and invited them to respond to a written survey by the end of August. Feedback will help ensure the Emergency 911 Grants Regulation supports NG911 and informs decision-making about clarifying grant eligibility.

Key Documents