Introduction
Legislatures in 21 states enacted 38 bills regarding 911 in 2023 to support and improve the operation of public emergency communications services. These laws mainly concern NG911, training standards for telecommunicators, reclassification of telecommunicators and 911 fees.
Four states—Florida, Illinois, Montana and Oklahoma—passed legislation to advance or fund NG911. NG911 is an internet protocol-based system that allows users to send digital information such as photos, text messages or videos, in addition to phone calls, to Public Safety Answering Points (PSAP) and reroute calls among PSAPs.
Four states—New Hampshire, New Mexico, Oklahoma and Texas—identified, established or enhanced training standards and requirements for 911 telecommunicators. Training standards are considered essential in providing more efficient and effective emergency response, ensuring public safety and helping telecommunicators meet the demands of their jobs.
Two states—Delaware and Missouri—reclassified 911 telecommunicators as first responders. Reclassifying 911 telecommunicators as first responders or a related title is viewed as an easy method to better reflect the central role they play in public safety and homeland security. Additionally, reclassification may help in recruiting and retaining staff due to more accurate expectations of the role and increased benefits that may emerge under a new classification. See NCSL’s Brief on state and federal efforts to elevate the 911 workforce to learn more.
Two states—Indiana and Oklahoma—increased user fees related to 911 services. Indiana’s Statewide 911 Board is authorized to make a one-time increase of up to 10 cents to the existing $1 prepaid wireless charge and $1 standard user fee for state residents. Oklahoma raised the monthly 911 telephone fee from 75 cents to $1.25 for all services capable of dialing 911, including landlines.