A pilot program using artificial intelligence for calls to New Orleans’ 911 line will begin on August 7, 2026. The system will be used particularly during periods when operators are handling a high volume of calls, for calls concerning traffic accidents that have already been reported.
The artificial intelligence system will collect initial information about the incident from the caller. The conversation will be transferred to a human operator when necessary.
Authorities say the program will not take over the duties of human operators. Trained 911 personnel will make decisions about emergency response and carry out critical assessments.
The New Orleans city administration is also preparing to use artificial intelligence on the non-emergency 311 citizen services line. The aim is to respond more quickly to routine requests and reduce call-center congestion.
If the pilot program is successful, similar systems could be expanded to other cities in the United States.