In a decision that was not entirely unexpected the FCC has now ordered all internet-phone companies to provide 911 service to their customers.

In a 4-0 vote, the FCC decided on Thursday to require Internet phone companies to improve 911 access within 120 days.

Analysts say the ruling could boost expenses for Internet-phone companies, most of which don’t have deep pockets. And some doubt that Internet phone companies can meet the FCC’s 120-day target, noting that the wireless industry still has some problems with 911 access despite a decade’s worth of effort.

The irony here is that while VoIP has exploded to over 1.5 million customers nationwide in just a couple of years, they are still completely dependant on local phone companies to provide 911 service. Naturally these dinosaurs aren’t so hip on helping to build their own grave. What a surprise.

The good news is that the ruling will now force local bells to provide 911 service to VoIP customers. Yay government.