Media Contact: 
Mike Snyder, (202) 418-0997
michael.snyder@fcc.gov

For Immediate Release

FCC SEEKS COMMENT ON COMPENSATION PLAN 
FOR VIDEO RELAY SERVICE 
Commission Also Extends Current Compensation Plan 
through December 2021
  -- 
WASHINGTON, May 20, 2021—The FCC took action today in its role overseeing compensation for providers of video relay service (VRS) through the Telecommunications Relay Services (TRS) Fund.  The Commission is seeking public comment on potential updates to the VRS compensation plan, and also approved an Order extending the current compensation plan through December 31, 2021, or earlier if the Commission adopts a new plan.

VRS allows individuals who use sign language to communicate with voice telephone users via a video connection to a communications assistant.  VRS is supported through the FCC-administered Interstate TRS Fund.  

In the Notice of Proposed Rulemaking adopted today, the Commission proposes to continue using a tiered compensation structure, whereby one per-minute rate applies to a provider’s initial quantity of monthly VRS minutes, up to a defined maximum, and lower rates apply to additional quantities of monthly minutes.  The Commission seeks comment on whether to adjust the tiered compensation levels at this time, or to defer any compensation changes for two years to await the resolution of uncertainty about post-COVID-19 pandemic changes in VRS costs and demand.  The Commission also seeks comment on possible changes to the current tier structure, the level of the per-minute compensation for each tier, and the duration of the next compensation period.    

In today’s action, the Commission also adopted an Order extending the current VRS compensation plan, which was set to expire June 30, 2021, through December 31, 2021, or the effective date of the Commission’s next compensation plan, whichever is earlier. 

In overseeing the TRS program, the Commission’s goals are to ensure that services such as VRS are functionally equivalent to voice communications services and are provided in the most efficient manner.  The Commission has sought to promote service quality and efficiency by offering consumers a choice among multiple certified VRS providers.  

Action by the Commission May 20, 2021 by Notice of Proposed Rulemaking and Order (FCC 21-61).  Acting Chairwoman Rosenworcel, Commissioners Carr, Starks, and Simington approving.  Acting Chairwoman Rosenworcel and Commissioner Starks issuing separate statements.

CG Docket Nos. 03-123, 10-51

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Media Relations: (202) 418-0500 / ASL: (844) 432-2275 / Twitter: @FCC / www.fcc.gov 

This is an unofficial announcement of Commission action.  Release of the full text of a Commission order constitutes official action.  See MCI v. FCC, 515 F.2d 385 (D.C. Cir. 1974).