Connecticut House Bill HB05155

Connecticut 2019 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/10/19
• Refer: 1/10/19

Caption

An Act Requiring 9-1-1 Calls To Be Routed To The Nearest Public Safety Answering Point.

Impact

The proposed changes in HB 05155 have implications for the structure and operations of emergency communication systems within the state. By mandating the routing of 9-1-1 calls to the nearest PSAP, the bill enhances cooperation between different jurisdictions and fosters a more coordinated emergency response framework. The change aims to minimize response times, which is critical during emergencies when every second counts. It reflects a growing recognition of the importance of effective communication in saving lives and providing timely assistance to those in need.

Summary

House Bill 05155 aims to enhance the efficiency of emergency response in the state by mandating that all 9-1-1 calls must be routed to the nearest Public Safety Answering Point (PSAP). The bill specifies that calls should be directed based on the geographical location from which they originated, ensuring that help reaches callers as quickly as possible. This legislative move is intended to streamline emergency response processes and improve overall public safety outcomes throughout the state.

Contention

While the bill is largely focused on improving emergency response times, potential points of contention could arise around the implementation logistics. Different PSAPs may have various capacities and resources, leading to disparities in response effectiveness across regions. Additionally, there may be concerns regarding the costs associated with updating technology and training personnel to adhere to new call-routing protocols. These factors could spark debate among stakeholders, particularly about the funding required to support this initiative effectively.