Wireless Priority Service (WPS)

WPS is a Federal program that authorizes cellular communications service providers to prioritize calls over wireless networks. Service provider participation in WPS program in voluntary. Participating service providers typically deploy WPS in stages until service is available in most coverage areas and functionality has reached full operating capability. Authorized users dial *272 on a WPS enabled device to receive calling queue priority. WPS calls do not preempt calls in progress, but provide priority status over cellular communications networks. The WPS program is in effect all the time--it is not contingent on a major disaster or attack taking place.