What is e911 and why is there a fee?

In the United States, E911 (Enhanced 911) is support for wireless phone users who dial 911, the standard number for requesting help in an emergency. Since wireless users are often mobile, some sort of enhancement is needed to 911 service that allows the location of the user to be known to the call receiver. E911 support is mandated by the U.S. Federal Communications Commission (FCC) for traditional mobile phone service and, since May 19, 2005, for VoIP service.

Telecommunications Carriers are required to impose these fees on its customers and to remit the collected fees to the relevant governmental bodies.