FCC fires warning shots for E911 VoIP violations, reveals inability to enforce rules

Since the FCC hasn't classified interconnected VoIP as a telecom or non-telecom, it has tied its hands when it comes to enforcement issues. Its Enforcement Bureau has resorted to issuing warning shots prior to imposing fines.

Recently, the FCC found that Vantage Communications had failed to provide E911 services to at least three customers. The failure was a violation of FCC regulations, but since VoIP is not classified and Vantage Communications is not a license holder, the FCC must provide a warning in the first instance of a violation before levying fines. After the citation, the FCC could fine Vantage Communications up to $16,000 per violation.

As Telecom Law Monitor writer and attorney Steve Augustino notes in his article, the failure on the FCC's part to classify VoIP is benefiting companies like Vantage. They get a slap on the wrist for their first offense skirting FCC rules and will be liable for a fraction of the fines telecoms are subject to--$16,000 versus $150,000 per violation!

Read more analysis on this subject:
- at Telecom Law Monitor

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