Connecticut House Bill HB05378

Connecticut 2012 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/29/12
• Refer: 2/29/12
• Report Pass: 3/15/12
• Refer: 3/23/12
• Report Pass: 3/29/12
• Refer: 4/10/12
• Report Pass: 4/16/12
• Refer: 4/23/12
• Report Pass: 4/25/12
• Engrossed: 4/26/12
• Report Pass: 4/27/12
• Chaptered: 5/29/12
• Enrolled: 5/31/12
• Passed: 6/15/12

Caption

An Act Concerning The Maximum Surcharge For Enhanced 9-1-1 Service.

Impact

The bill's impact will be felt across various public safety agencies and telecommunications providers. By increasing the surcharge, it aims to boost the Enhanced 9-1-1 Telecommunications Fund, which supports the development and administration of comprehensive emergency services. This change is expected to enhance the effectiveness and response times of emergency services throughout the state, making it a significant update to local public safety infrastructure. Furthermore, the raised fee is designed to promote sufficient investment in technology and training that will enhance the overall effectiveness of emergency response efforts.

Summary

House Bill 05378 aims to amend existing regulations concerning the maximum surcharge for enhanced 9-1-1 service. The bill focuses on establishing a new fee structure, increasing the cap on monthly fees that can be charged for telecommunications services to fund enhanced emergency services. Specifically, it raises the maximum allowable fee from fifty cents to seventy-five cents per month per access line, applying to various providers including local telephone services, commercial mobile radio services, and voice over Internet protocol services. This adjustment is intended to ensure adequate funding for emergency response services, as the increasing reliance on mobile and internet-based communication necessitates updated financial resources to maintain and improve emergency services.

Sentiment

The sentiment expressed during discussions around HB 05378 appears to be generally positive, with supporters emphasizing the necessity of ensuring that adequate funding is in place to support emergency services amid evolving technological landscapes. Proponents argue that the fee increase is a small price to pay for enhanced safety and improved response capabilities. However, there remain challenges and concerns about the burden the increased fees might place on consumers, particularly in economically strained communities. While most agree on the importance of funding emergency services, some dissent regarding the financial implications on residents has been voiced.

Contention

Notable points of contention stem from concerns over the financial impact on users of telecommunications services. Critics question whether the increased fee is justified and worry it could disproportionately affect low-income households. Additionally, discussions have highlighted a need for transparency regarding how the collected fees will be utilized within public safety budgets. There is ongoing debate over balancing this financial support with the potential for increased costs to consumers and ensuring that the additional revenues generated lead directly to tangible improvements in emergency services.