Posted on May 11th, 2023.

In today's digital age, communication plays a vital role in our personal and professional lives. Whether it's a friendly chat or an urgent business call, we rely on our phones to connect us with the world. But have you ever wondered what would happen if you needed to make an emergency call from a multi-line telephone system? This is where Kari's Law comes into play. 

In this blog post, we will delve into the details of Kari's Law, an essential legislation that every phone carrier needs to be familiar with.

What is Kari's Law about?

Kari's Law was named in honor of Kari Hunt, a woman who tragically lost her life in a hotel room due to a 911 misdialing issue. This incident exposed a critical flaw in many multi-line telephone systems, where users were required to dial a prefix number before reaching an outside line. As a direct response to this tragedy, Kari's Law was enacted to ensure that direct access to emergency services is readily available without any additional steps or prefixes.

How do you Comply with Kari's Law?

To comply with Kari's Law, all multi-line telephone systems, including those used by businesses, schools, and hotels, must be capable of directly dialing emergency services. This means that any user, even without an outside line, should be able to reach emergency services by simply dialing "9-1-1." Additionally, the legislation requires that once dialed, the call must be automatically routed to emergency services without the need for any additional action from the user or phone system.

Apart from providing direct access to emergency services, Kari's Law also emphasizes the importance of accurate location information during an emergency call. Section 3 of the law requires that multi-line telephone systems transmit the caller's precise location information to emergency dispatchers. This provision ensures that first responders can quickly and efficiently locate individuals in need of assistance, even in large facilities or complex environments.

Who does Kari's Law apply to?

Phone carriers and businesses must ensure compliance with Kari's Law to meet the legal requirements and protect the safety of their customers and employees.

What is the penalty for violating Kari's Law?

Non-compliance can result in severe penalties, including fines and potential legal action. To ensure adherence, phone carriers need to evaluate their existing systems, assess if any updates are required, and work towards implementing the necessary changes to meet Kari's Law standards.

What has been the Impact of Kari's Law?

Kari's Law has had a profound impact on the telecommunications industry, prompting phone carriers and businesses to reevaluate their emergency response systems. The legislation has fostered an environment where public safety is prioritized, ensuring that everyone has direct access to emergency services when needed. By implementing Kari's Law, phone carriers can demonstrate their commitment to the well-being of their customers, while businesses can enhance the safety of their premises and protect their employees.

In conclusion, Kari's Law is a crucial piece of legislation that every phone carrier must be aware of and comply with. Its core requirements, such as direct access to emergency services and enhanced location information, aim to improve public safety and facilitate rapid emergency response.

As a business specializing in software invention and licensing, TeleSentient™ understands the importance of staying up-to-date with legal requirements and ensuring compliance. If you have any questions about Kari's Law or need assistance in evaluating your phone system's compliance, please don't hesitate to reach out to us at 48881300. We are here to help you navigate the complexities of telecommunications regulations and provide solutions that prioritize the safety of your customers and employees.