Kari's Law goes into effect Sept. 1 at hotels, schools, hospitals and companies across Texas.[/caption]

A new law in Texas will give a little more time when seconds count.

Senate Bill 788, also known as Kari's Law, requires owners of multi-line telephone systems to provide direct dial access to 9-1-1.

Multi-line phone systems are found most commonly in hospitals, schools, hotels and small and large companies. Phone users will no longer have to dial an additional digit such as “9” before getting an outside line when dialing 9-1-1. Phone line providers have until Sept. 1 to comply with the law.

“Open and clear access to 9-1-1 is essential for maintaining public safety,” said Ryan Sullivan, legislative liaison and public information officer with the Harris County sheriff’s office. "Kari’s Law makes access to the 9-1-1 system unimpeded and safe.”

SB 788 was passed in the 2015 legislative session and signed into law by Gov. Greg Abbott May 15, 2015. It was inspired by the murder of Kari Hunt, a Texas woman who was attacked by her estranged husband in a motel room. Hunt’s 9-year-old daughter attempted to dial 9-1-1, but was unable to get through because she did not first dial “9” to be connected to an outbound line.

Russell Rau, chairman of Greater Harris County 9-1-1 Emergency Network—which provides 9-1-1 technology infrastructure in Harris County—is encouraging compliance among multi-line operators.

"We teach our children to dial three simple numbers in an emergency, and that is all they should have to remember," he said in a press release.

If an existing phone system cannot be reprogrammed or replaced to meet the direct access requirement, a one-year waiver will be granted upon submission of an affidavit, officials said.

For more information on the history of Kari's Law, the requirements to comply or to request a waiver, visit texas911.org/KarisLaw.