A new research report, filed by the Security Industry Association (SIA) with the Federal Communications Commission (FCC), details the risks of a proposal under consideration by the FCC that would restructure portions of the Lower 900 MHz band, which is used by billions of unlicensed, low-power devices.
NextNav has petitioned the FCC to reconfigure the frequencies between 902-928 MHz (the Lower 900 MHz Band) and grant the company a nationwide license for 15 megahertz of spectrum so it can establish a 5G terrestrial-based position, navigation and timing network—radically altering the spectrum. The new research conducted by engineering consulting firm Pericle Communications Company, commissioned by SIA and with additional support from the Alarm Industry Communications Committee, the Electronic Security Association (ESA) and The Monitoring Association (TMA), shows that the proposal would severely limit the range and compromise the effectiveness of devices operating in this spectrum, including:
Lower 900 MHz band is heavily used by “Part 15” security and life safety systems, smart home technology, consumer and business electronics and more devices that would face harmful interference from NextNav’s high-power usage in the band.
In addition to these public safety and security uses, other critical systems that could be disrupted include equipment that first responders use during emergencies, municipal infrastructure, railroad operations and safety, highway infrastructure, retail and supply chain operations and agriculture solutions.
“Our research modeling and simulations show that NextNav’s proposed system would render an enormous number of public safety and mission-critical devices—along with countless other devices that rely upon the Lower 900 MHz Band—inoperable,” said Michael McGinley, senior systems engineer at Pericle. “This amount of interference would simply be unacceptable due to the severe disruption it would have on the user experience and radio performance. The interference would be a direct result of the incompatibilities between NextNav’s high-power cellular network and the low-power, radio frequency devices currently operating in the band.”
“NextNav’s proposal would be detrimental to the operation of devices that are critical for our life safety and security, first responders and the public,” said SIA CEO Don Erickson. “This proposal would have devastating effects in many U.S. households, and make everyday life less safe, less convenient and more costly.”
“Since the proposal to the FCC was filed more than 16 months ago, the Commission has been flooded with concerns from affected companies and trade groups about the potential consequences,” said TMA President Steve Butkovich.
“The Pericle study confirms the negative impact to consumers and to public safety that would result if the petition were to be granted,” said ESA Executive Director and CEO Merlin Guilbeau.
As other concerned parties have noted, there are a variety of GPS alternatives that do not require severely disrupting existing spectrum users. While a backup GPS system is needed, these other solutions would cause much less disruption, and implementing NextNav’s proposal would present tradeoffs that are not worth the harmful impact on our nation’s safety and security and major inconveniences the proposal would cause.
The full research report can be found here. More information and resources related to the Lower 900 MHz band can be found here.
COPS Monitoring, a leading provider of professional monitoring services in North America, proudly announces the official launch of ASAP (Automated Secure Alarm Protocol) across its network of UL-listed monitoring stations. This advanced technology enables the direct electronic transmission of alarm data to public safety answering points (PSAPs), significantly enhancing response times and accuracy.
ASAP eliminates the need for traditional phone calls to 911 centers by securely transmitting crucial alarm information, such as the type of emergency, address, and contact details, instantly and precisely. This streamlined communication accelerates dispatching public safety agencies, improves accuracy, reduces call volume at 911 centers, and minimizes the potential for miscommunication. Moreover, it enables real-time status updates between COPS and participating PSAPs, promoting enhanced collaboration between monitoring professionals and first responders.
COPS Monitoring has been a charter member and early supporter of the ASAP initiative, which was developed through a cooperative effort between The Monitoring Association (TMA) and the Association of Public-Safety Communications Officials (APCO) International. This longstanding commitment to automation and industry collaboration has played a vital role in shaping the development and success of the protocol and today marks a significant milestone in making that vision a reality.
ASAP is currently deployed in more than 150 cities across the United States, with new locations added regularly as municipalities adopt and modernize their emergency communication solutions and processes. COPS Monitoring remains actively engaged in supporting and expanding the protocol’s adoption nationwide.
Looking ahead, COPS Monitoring’s current integration with ASAP proactively lays the groundwork for future enhancements, including the secure transmission of video, audio, photos, sensor metadata, and other contextual data, all designed to improve situational awareness further and equip first responders with more actionable intelligence.
With the introduction of ASAP, COPS Monitoring continues its commitment to adopt technologies that elevate professional alarm monitoring and improve outcomes for all stakeholders. “Our launch of ASAP represents another significant investment in technology and public safety,” said Jim McMullen, President of COPS Monitoring. “By enhancing response times and the accuracy of emergency dispatches, we are not only helping to protect lives and property but also supporting the evolving needs of our dealers, their customers, and the first responders who serve our communities. We are proud to be part of this critical innovation.”
Contact David Smith at (954) 545-5708 or dsmith@copsmonitoring.com for more information.
Artificial Intelligence Technology Solutions, Inc. (the “Company”) (OTCID:AITX), a global leader in AI-driven security and productivity solutions for enterprise clients, along with its wholly owned subsidiary Robotic Assistance Devices Group, Inc. (RAD-G) (collectively, the “Companies”), today announced the development of a proprietary Vision-Language Model (VLM) purpose-built for security applications. Unlike off-the-shelf models such as ChatGPT, Claude and Meta’s Llama1, this VLM has been engineered in-house to deliver precise, real-time generative AI for action and analysis of visual and textual data specifically tuned for security professionals. The Company sees the need for a security-specific VLM that has greater transparency and control than the mass-market LLMs currently available.
“Security end users and manufacturers absolutely require LLMs and VLMs where they have greater control and transparency related to generative AI’s operations,” said Steve Reinharz, CEO/CTO and founder of AITX and RAD-G “After nearly a year of building the fundamental technology, we are ready to announce this effort with a prospective launch date before the end of this calendar year.”
A VLM is a type of artificial intelligence that can both “see” and “understand.” It processes images and video along with written and spoken language at the same time. In simple terms, it is the technology that lets the Company’s devices watch what is happening, interpret it in context, and then respond in methods people can easily understand.
Designed for integration and licensing, this solution provides organizations with a streamlined, high-performance tool to enhance situational awareness and drive progress across the security sector. This breakthrough follows the Company’s success with SARA™, RAD-G’s widely acclaimed agentic AI-powered video monitoring and action solution and further extends the reach of AITX’s advanced security technologies.
The Companies expect to deliver this solution to the industry at prices comparable to the current pricing structure of the major LLM service providers. As development has been underway for some time this project will be launched without adding costs to existing SG&A.
Because AITX and RAD-G have developed and own this VLM outright, the Companies can offer flexible licensing arrangements to security providers, integrators, and enterprise clients. This level of control ensures rapid adaptation to evolving security needs, streamlined integration with a variety of platforms, and the ability for partners to tailor the technology to their specific environments. By making the VLM available for licensing, the Company is enabling a new standard of intelligence, agility, and responsiveness in the security industry.
Organizations interested in bringing the RAD-G VLM to their security operations or exploring licensing opportunities are encouraged to contact the Company for more information. As the security industry continues to move forward, AITX remains focused on providing advanced solutions that create tangible results for clients, partners, and the sector as a whole.
AITX, through its primary subsidiary, Robotic Assistance Devices, Inc. (RAD), is redefining the nearly $50 billion (US) security and guarding services industry2 through its broad lineup of innovative, AI-driven Solutions-as-a-Service business model. RAD solutions are specifically designed to provide cost savings to businesses of between 35%-80% when compared to the industry’s existing and costly manned security guarding and monitoring model. RAD delivers these tremendous cost savings via a suite of stationary and mobile robotic solutions that complement, and at times, directly replace the need for human personnel in environments better suited for machines. All RAD technologies, AI-based analytics and software platforms are developed in-house.
The Company’s operations and internal controls have been validated through successful completion of its SOC 2 Type 2 audit, reinforcing the Company’s credibility with enterprise and government clients who require strict data protection and security compliance.
RAD has a prospective sales pipeline of over 35 Fortune 500 companies and numerous other client opportunities. RAD expects to continue to attract new business as it converts its existing sales opportunities into deployed clients generating a recurring revenue stream. Each Fortune 500 client has the potential of making numerous reorders over time.
Contact: Doug Clemons, Chief Marketing Officer, Robotic Assistance Devices, at (949) 769-1046 or doug.c@radsecurity.com for more information.
The Monitoring Association (TMA) announced that the City of Riverside, California’s Emergency Communications Center (ECC) has saved an estimated 24,462 minutes—over 33 hours a month—in 2024 alone by using TMA’s ASAP Service to process alarm and sensor notifications.
The estimate is based on an average savings of two minutes per call for 12,231 alarm notifications processed via ASAP Service in 2024, bypassing the traditional multiple voice calls required to gather dispatch and response details.
“The streamlined call-handling enabled our telecommunicators to focus more on priority 911 emergencies, which was especially beneficial during periods of high call volume,” Brandt said. “ASAP Service has been a valuable tool for our center, and I’m surprised that more agencies haven’t adopted it.”
Riverside’s ECC handles emergency calls and dispatches police, fire/rescue, and emergency medical response. In 2024, the center handled more than 756,000 calls for service. Given the large call volume, ECC officials sought a way to mitigate the impact of alarm/sensor notifications, which can require as many as five voice calls between an ECC’s telecommunicator and alarm monitoring center personnel to gather the necessary information for dispatching the appropriate response.
Consequently, the ECC implemented ASAP Service in 2023, for law enforcement-related alarm notifications, and the results have been eye-opening, according to Michelle Brandt, the city’s police/fire communications manager. In 2024, 12,231 alarm notifications were delivered directly to the center’s CAD system via the ASAP Service, dramatically reducing the number of manual phone calls between telecommunicators and alarm-monitoring center personnel.
ASAP Service was developed by TMA to lessen the impact of alarm/sensor notifications that typically enter an ECC over nonemergency administrative telephone lines. With ASAP Service in place, those notifications are automatically delivered to the ECC’s computer-aided dispatch (CAD) system, providing all the information needed by ECC’s telecommunicators to dispatch the appropriate emergency response. This saves approximately two minutes per call on average, a significant amount of time during emergencies when lives are at stake and every second counts.
ASAP Service leverages the Automated Secure Alarm Protocol (ASAP). The protocol was developed jointly by TMA and the Association of Public-Safety Communications Officials (APCO). ASAP Service also leverages the Alarm Verification Scoring standard (ANSI/TMA AVS-01), which identifies five scoring levels to help telecommunicators prioritize the severity of an alarm/sensor notification.
Learn more about how TMA’s ASAP Service is saving lives every day nationwide at www.ASAP911.org.
Vector Security®, Inc., announced its achievement of UL Alarm Validation Scoring (AVS-01) standard certification, a significant milestone that further solidifies its commitment to improving alarm verification and emergency dispatch communication between alarm monitoring centers and first responders.
With this achievement, Vector Security becomes one of less than 10 alarm monitoring companies nationwide to earn this certification.
Developed by The Monitoring Association (TMA) and UL Solutions, AVS-01 establishes best practices for burglar alarm monitoring to ensure first responders receive accurate, prioritized information. By implementing a scoring system ranging from Level 0 (no call for service) to Level 4 (threat to life), the standard provides emergency responders with actionable, prioritized alarm information, allowing them to allocate resources more efficiently and effectively.
“AVS-01 enables improved collaboration with law enforcement to better prioritize the safety and security of our customers by assigning the appropriate level of response to burglar alarms,” said Josh Studeny, Director of Central Station Services for Vector Security. “Achieving this certification underscores Vector Security’s dedication to protecting our communities through faster, more accurate emergency response, as well as our pioneering efforts to reduce false alarms. By adopting this standard, we’re not only enhancing the efficiency and accuracy of alarm responses but also strengthening our role as a trusted partner to law enforcement and the customers we serve.”
For Vector Security customers, this means increased peace of mind knowing their safety is supported by a standardized prioritization system for burglar alarms. For first responders, it ensures resources are allocated efficiently and appropriately for the emergency at hand. As a whole, communities benefit from improved public safety and resource management.
Vector Security was awarded the certification after evaluation by UL for utilizing enhanced call verification; designating and detailing the appropriate threat level to emergency centers; and internal auditing for ongoing operator coaching and training.
On Thurs., June 19th, in front of a crowd attending the closing luncheon of ESX 2025 in Atlanta, TMA President Steve Butkovich honored TMA CEO Celia T. Besore for her “leadership, advocacy and unwavering dedication to her field” by presenting her TMA’s most prestigious Mel Mahler Award. Formerly known as the President’s Award, this award is bestowed at the discretion of the TMA president in recognition of outstanding contributions within his/her tenure. This award represents extraordinary commitment to the values of the advancement of the professional monitoring industry.
In his remarks, Steve stated, “Celia has shaped policy, elevated standards, and built bridges across the alarm and monitoring landscape. Her name is synonymous with leadership, advocacy and unwavering dedication to her field. Across decades of service, her influence has been felt not just in her work at The Monitoring Association (TMA), but by the countless professionals she’s worked with and inspired along the way. She’s not only devoted her career to supporting this industry, but she’s helped to define it. Her passion, integrity, and tireless efforts embody the spirit of the Mel Mahler Award and its enduring legacy.”
ESA Chairman Kevin Stone also honored Celia for her many contributions to the industry.
Celia announced her retirement just weeks ago after 19 years at TMA. In receiving the award, she shared, “It’s going to be very hard to walk away. Mel Mahler was someone I knew well. He was a mentor. This award means so much to me.”
Shannon Woodman, Chief Executive Officer of Washington Alarm, will be honored with the prestigious William N. Moody Award on June 17th at ESX 2025 in Atlanta. Created in 2004 by the Security Industry Alarm Coalition (SIAC), the Moody award is presented annually to an individual who demonstrates a passion for advancing positive alarm management and best industry practices.
“Shannon has a long history of involvement and leadership as a member of the Board of Directors of The Monitoring Association, NetOne International, and as Chairman of the Western Chapter and Board Member of the Security Integration and Life Safety Association of the Northwest,” said SIAC Board Chairman Tim Creenan. “When our industry was challenged by the Seattle Police Department’s sudden implementation of verified response, Shannon stepped up to lead an industry coalition to support the model ordinance and retain police response for the citizens our industry and the police serve and protect.”
“Her commitment and organizational skills have been instrumental in putting the issue in front of elected officials and Seattle’s new chief of police.”
“My family has been in the security and life safety field for 82 years now,” said Woodman. “I learned from an early age the value of the service we provide the community and the importance of giving back to our community and our industry,” said Woodman. “It has been a privilege to work with SIAC on the verified response update in Seattle. We value their expertise and guidance as we collaborate with our colleagues, law enforcement, and elected officials to make our community as safe as possible.”
About the William N. Moody Award
The William N. Moody Award was established in 2004 by the SIAC Board of Directors to recognize those who embody Bill’s dedication to alarm management issues. The award honors individuals who reflect attributes that include integrity, fairness and perseverance in the face of adversity.
About Washington Alarm Company
Founded by Jack Woodman and now under the leadership of Shannon Woodman, Washington Alarm has served Washington State for over 82 years. The company’s in-house UL-listed Five Diamond Certified Central Station in Seattle monitors over 10,000 customers, ensuring the highest standards of safety and security.
About SIAC
SIAC represents one voice for the electronic security industry on alarm management issues –communicating solutions and enhancing relationships with law enforcement. SIAC is comprised of four major North American security associations–Canadian Security Association (CANASA), Security Industry Association (SIA), Central Station Alarm Association (CSAA), and the Electronic Security Association (ESA). For more information, go to www.SIACinc.org, www.siacinc.wordpress.com, or follow us on www.twitter.com/siacinc.
On April 24th, TMA members approved the proposed slate of Board of Directors candidates for the 2025-2027 term. Please join in congratulating our returning and new TMA Board of Directors.
Executive Committee
Board Reappointments by Member Category Representation
The Board of Directors of The Monitoring Association (TMA) announces the retirement of its Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Celia T. Besore, MBA, FASAE, CAE. Celia has served in successive positions during her tenure with the organization, which spans over 19 years of service. Her final day at TMA is Friday, July 18th.
“With Celia’s guidance, TMA has experienced consistent growth in membership and influence in our industry. We’ve celebrated marked advancements in TMA programs (ASAP, Five Diamond, and FirstNet), standards, and advocacy,” stated TMA President Steve Butkovich. “Her dedication to the monitoring industry has left a lasting impact on our members and partners in the security industry, public safety, and law enforcement. As a result of her competent leadership, TMA is positioned for continued success. The TMA Board deeply thanks Celia for her service to TMA and our industry.”
Celia first joined the then-CSAA staff in April of 1999 as director of marketing & communications, later becoming VP of Marketing and Programs. In the ensuing 11 years, she also guided TMA’s membership and education initiatives—all the while achieving consistent growth of the organization. In August of 2010, she left TMA to become the executive director and CEO of the National Association of Hispanic Nurses (NAHN). She returned to TMA in January 2017, assuming the position of vice president of membership and programs. In November 2018, Celia was appointed executive director of TMA, later promoted to CEO.
“I am overwhelmed with both gratitude and pride as I reflect on my time at TMA where I have been afforded many opportunities to grow and advance in my career,” shared Celia. “Above all, my greatest rewards and inspiration have been appreciated in the moments of collaboration with the many dedicated and passionate professionals who are dedicated to the protection of life and property. I will always treasure the relationships I have made over the course of my tenure at TMA.”
Most notable among her accomplishments and contributions to the association during her tenure are: assisting with the development of the original Operator Level 1 and 2 Online courses; the introduction of social media; the creation of the Five Diamond program; the development of the Excellence Awards; the development of an marketing campaign for NAMTSE, which included a virtual expo and was recognized with an award by the American Society of Association Executives; the establishment of the first Compliance Community, which created an online resource of state licensing requirements; and the writing of the history of the first 50 years of the Association. She is also especially proud of TMA’s response to the pandemic, an unprecedented challenge for the industry and association. TMA supported its members during this period by offering highly attended weekly town halls covering the most critical issues of that week and providing them with many other resources and assistance.
Those wishing to express wishes to Celia before July 18th may reach her by email at ceo@tma.us or by phone at (703) 660-4913. Thereafter, she may be emailed at celia@strategia.cc.
