FCC Releases Relay Services for Deaf Blind Order

In this Order, the Federal Communications Commission extends the National Deaf-Blind Equipment Distribution Program (NDBEDP), as a pilot program, for one additional year, until June 30, 2017. The NDBEDP provides up to $10 million annually to support programs that distribute communications equipment to low-income individuals who are deaf-blind.

The NDBEDP has operated as a pilot program since July 2012 and is currently set to expire on June 30, 2016. Extending the pilot program for an additional year will enable the NDBEDP to continue providing communications equipment to low-income individuals who are deaf-blind without interruption while the Commission completes the proceeding that is underway to adopt rules to govern a permanent NDBEDP.