An Act Concerning Reliability Of 9-1-1 Call Service.
The bill grants the Public Utilities Regulatory Authority (PURA) the authority to investigate any service disruptions related to 9-1-1 call services. If PURA finds that a provider has violated the service reliability requirements, they can impose significant civil penalties of up to fifty thousand dollars for each day the violation occurs. This punitive measure is designed to encourage compliance and ensure that providers take their responsibilities seriously, reflecting the state's commitment to maintaining high standards for emergency services.
House Bill 05322 aims to enhance the reliability of 9-1-1 call services across the state. It mandates that all telecommunication providers, including telephone companies and voice over Internet protocol (VoIP) providers, ensure continuous and uninterrupted service to public safety answering points. This provision is crucial to ensure that emergency calls can reach response teams without delay or disruption, thereby enhancing public safety and emergency response effectiveness.
As with many legislative measures, there may be points of contention surrounding the bill, particularly concerning the penalties and regulatory oversight. Telecommunication providers may express concerns about the costs associated with compliance and the potential for penalties based on service interruptions that might be beyond their control. Conversely, advocates for public safety emphasize the critical need for reliable 9-1-1 services, arguing that the bill's strict requirements are necessary to protect the community and save lives.
Another significant aspect of HB 05322 is its comprehensive definition of the entities responsible for ensuring service reliability, including certified telecommunications providers and VoIP service providers. By including multiple service types, the bill seeks to create a standardized understanding of accountability in the emergency communication landscape, aiming to prevent ambiguities that could arise in handling emergencies.