California regulators weigh new standards to improve wireless service, emergency communications
PALM DESERT, CA (KESQ) – California regulators are considering new standards aimed at improving wireless service and keeping communication networks operating during emergencies, including access to 911.
Hope Chistman, a local government liaison for the California Public Utilities Commission, updated Coachella Valley leaders on the efforts Monday morning during a meeting of the Coachella Valley Association of Governments.
The CPUC currently has two separate proceedings underway involving telecommunications.
The first, R.26-02-017, focuses on everyday wireless service. The CPUC is considering whether service quality standards should apply to wireless carriers, including standards involving outages, reliability and how quickly service is restored.
Deadline for public comments is Sept. 15 as regulators move closer to developing proposed standards. However, the public is still encouraged to give feedback.
The second proceeding, R.25-07-014, focuses on keeping communication networks working during emergencies.
Current California resiliency requirements include backup power provisions for certain communications facilities in high-fire-threat areas. The CPUC is now considering whether those requirements should be changed or expanded, including how networks prepare for emergencies beyond wildfires.
That could be particularly relevant in the Coachella Valley, where extreme heat, flooding, power outages and other emergencies can threaten communications.
The CPUC will hold a workshop on R.25-07-014 on Oct. 30 focused on network resiliency data and reporting. Public participation hearings are also expected before the end of the year.
No final decisions have been made in either proceeding.
Comments on proceedings can be submitted anytime on the CPUC Docket Card: www.CPUC.CA.GOV.
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