SECTION 251.4. Guidelines for Accessibility Equipment

(a) Purpose. The purpose of this rule is to establish minimum standards for RPCs to use in complying with applicable sections of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).

(b) Equipment. All 9-1-1 Public Safety Answering Points (PSAPs) must have telecommunication device for the deaf (TDD) accessibility equipment at each 9-1-1 call taking position. This equipment may be integrated into the CPE or may be a separate stand-alone unit. In addition, each PSAP must also have at least one functioning stand-alone TDD unit available to be used as back-up in the event of equipment failure; in order to comply with Title II of the ADA.

(c) Testing. In accordance with Commission Rule 251.1, Regional Strategic Plans for 9-1-1 Service, all PSAPs must test the 9-1-1 equipment to ensure that the integrated and stand alone TDD is functioning properly.

(d) Training. All 9-1-1 call takers must be trained to recognize and accept TDD calls through both the integrated and stand alone TDD. Training must be offered at a minimum of once every six months.

Source Note: The provisions of this §251.4 adopted to be effective February 29, 2004, 29 TexReg 1642; amended to be effective December 7, 2008, 33 TexReg 9971