Connecticut House Bill HB05407

Connecticut 2016 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/24/16
• Refer: 2/24/16
• Report Pass: 3/10/16
• Refer: 3/21/16
• Report Pass: 3/29/16
• Refer: 4/5/16
• Report Pass: 4/12/16
• Engrossed: 5/3/16
• Report Pass: 5/3/16
• Chaptered: 5/19/16
• Enrolled: 5/25/16
• Passed: 6/9/16

Caption

An Act Concerning The Division Of State-wide Emergency Telecommunications.

Impact

The legislation facilitates the establishment of a more systematic approach to emergency telecommunications by introducing a framework for funding and managing services. Specifically, the bill calls for the development of a next-generation 9-1-1 system capable of providing enhanced features such as automatic number identification and geographic location display. This legal restructuring affects existing state statutes related to public telecommunications operations and ensures consistency across municipalities.

Summary

House Bill 5407, titled 'An Act Concerning the Division of State-Wide Emergency Telecommunications', aims to enhance the structure and efficiency of emergency service telecommunications in Connecticut. The bill establishes a Division of State-Wide Emergency Telecommunications within the Department of Emergency Services and Public Protection, tasked with the responsibility for developing and maintaining a comprehensive state-wide emergency service telecommunications policy. It encompasses the rollout of enhanced 9-1-1 services aimed at improving emergency response times and resources through coordinated systems and training programs.

Sentiment

Support for HB 5407 was generally favorable among lawmakers and public safety advocates, who view it as a necessary evolution of the state’s emergency response capabilities. Proponents assert that a unified telecommunications strategy will lead to better emergency response outcomes and operational efficiencies. However, some concerns were expressed regarding potential costs and the implications for local municipalities that may need to adapt to new standards.

Contention

Notable points of contention in the discussions surrounding HB 5407 include concerns about funding mechanisms and the potential for reduced local control over emergency service operations. Critics voiced that the funding might disproportionately favor larger municipalities, potentially leaving smaller towns with inadequate resources. Additionally, several stakeholders raised questions about the training requirements for telecommunicators and the timelines for implementing the next-generation 9-1-1 system.