Overview of Video Relay Services

Over the past two years, the Federal Communications Commission (FCC), the governmental agency that regulates the reimbursement rate for Video Relay Services (VRS), has been considering cutting the VRS reimbursement rate. In response, the Video Relay Services Consumer Association (VRSCA) helped Deaf individuals, VRS consumers, and VRS supporters realize this would severely undermine VRS providers’ ability to make needed investments in new technology, interpreter training, and additional access to VRS. As a result, these consumers sent tens of thousands of comments to the FCC, delivering a clear message: Do not cut VRS funding!

Recent Announcement

On November 19, 2007, the FCC announced that it has adopted a three-year VRS reimbursement rate methodology, which will result in a predictable rate for three years.  Knowing the rate for three years will give VRS providers the incentive to invest to improve VRS service, providing access to VRS for more Deaf individuals,  In addition, the FCC’s new rate plan will spur more investment in new technology and in training new interpreters.

Under the plan adopted by the FCC, the reimbursement rate for VRS calls will decline each year for the next three years.  The rate would not increase for inflation and would decline based on productivity according to a formula in the FCC decision. At the same time, VRS providers will know what the rate will be for each of the three years.
Also under the FCC proposal, the rate for providers would decline as the number of calls handled by each provider increases. 

Ensuring Investment in Future Video Relay Services

The FCC’s decision is a victory for the Deaf community and will encourage increased access to VRS for more Deaf individuals. Over the coming months, be sure to check the VRSCA Web site often for more information on current topics related to VRS and its future funding.

The VRSCA provides an objective environment for individuals to discuss and resolve issues that relate to VRS.