Kari’s Law Now in Effect in Texas

AUSTIN — As of today, all businesses, schools, and hotels across the state are now required by law to directly access 911. It stems from an East Texas incident three years ago. State lawmakers passed the law in 2015 known as “Kari’s Law”. It was named after Kari Hunt, a woman who was attacked in 2013 by her ex-husband in a Marshall hotel room. Kari’s 9-year-old daughter tried calling 911 four times but could not get through. The reason: she did not know she had to dial “9” to get an outside line. Kari died before help could arrive. The Commission on State Emergency Communications gave businesses until September 1st to comply. Businesses which are unable to comply can file for a one year waiver.