News & Filings

TDI agrees and we were overjoyed when we learned that on September 29, 2022, the FCC Chairs have passed the Rates for Interstate Inmate Calling Services, WC Docket No. 12-375, Fourth Report and Order and Sixth Further Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (September 29, 2022). What does this mean? This recent order affirms the right to access communications for deaf and people with disabilities while incarcerated. FCC now requires all communication access providers who are eligible for TRS funds in any correctional facility that has broadband connection and a part of the carceral system with more than 50 incarcerated people to have to provide access to all relay services including VRS; as well as point to point video calls using ASL.

Emergency Alert System Messages. As I sign this video, Hurricane Ian has ravished our coastal cities and wreaked havoc.   How can we ensure accessible communication services will be available? Our FCC Chairwoman Jessica Rosenworcel said, “it is important to know that when we turn on the television screens to get information about an impending weather event or other disaster there is both a recorded EAS message and a text crawl.” TDI agrees.  On Sept. 29th, FCC updated their Emergency Alert Systems to require EAS participants to check to make sure they have the most updated technology available that provides detailed information.