A:  VRS is a telecommunication service for Deaf and hard-of-hearing individuals who use American Sign Language (ASL) as their primary language.   VRS enables anyone to conduct video relay calls through a certified ASL interpreter via a high-speed Internet connection and a webcam with a PC or a videophone and a TV. The Deaf user sees an ASL interpreter on their TV or computer screen and signs to the interpreter, who then places a call to a hearing person via a standard phone line and relays the conversation between both parties. Communication using VRS is instantaneous and natural.

A:  Various VRS companies provide video relay services free of charge.   Each of these VRS providers is reimbursed from the federal Telecommunications Relay Services Fund and must comply with various Federal Communications Commission (FCC) service quality requirements. For example, providers that choose to offer VRS must meet speed-of-answer requirements and must offer service 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

A:  Yes, VRS is the most functionally equivalent form of telecommunication services for the Deaf community and VRSCA supports all efforts to make sure VRS is available to everyone.

A: The Video Relay Services Consumer Association (VRSCA) empowers Deaf, hard-of-hearing and hearing individuals to discuss and resolve current issues and rights relating to video relay services (VRS). The goal is to integrate VRS throughout the country by educating the community, which will ultimately help to bridge the communication gap between Deaf, hard-of-hearing and hearing individuals; and by encouraging the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) to improve comprehensive VRS services.

A: Yes, all VRS users and VRS providers can participate in the organization and are encouraged to be involved to help make VRS more accessible to the thousands of Deaf individuals across the United States.