Exclusive: SBC comments on the Vonage E-911 issue

In a previous post today, I surmised why SBC seems to be reluctant to work with Vonage to devise E-911 solutions.

Now, SBC has their say. Spokesperson Wes Warnock just emailed me to clarify their position on this issue:

"First, SBC recognizes that there are no shortcuts when it comes to public safety. That said, SBC does not own the 9-1-1 system. Public safety agencies do.

"Vonage needs to take yes for an answer. We have 9-1-1 solutions in place for VoIP providers today. Vonage appears more concerned about finding ways to provide E9-1-1 on the cheap."

SBC's Warnock added that Chris Rice, SBC's Executive Vice President, Network Planning and Engineering,has expressed his views on statements made by Vonage CEO Jeffrey Citron thatSBC was not cooperating withVonage in researching E-911solutions for VoIP.

Warnock told me that according to Rice,"SBC is actively working with numerous industry organizations on enhancing E9-1-1 interface solutions. The telecom industry has always sought solutions through industry-standards-setting organizations. That's how its done on the scale we're talking about. Rather than dismiss it, Vonage should embrace it and work within it like the 'broadband phone company' it claims to be."

Does this change your perspective on this issue? Post a TalkBack and let us know.