North Dakota House Bill HB1242

North Dakota 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/10/23
• Refer: 1/10/23
• Refer: 1/17/23
• Report Pass: 2/9/23
• Engrossed: 2/14/23
• Refer: 2/15/23
• Report Pass: 3/3/23
• Refer: 3/3/23
• Report Pass: 4/5/23
• Enrolled: 4/7/23
• Passed: 4/17/23

Caption

A line of credit authorized for the statewide interoperable radio network project; to provide an appropriation; to provide for a transfer; to provide for a legislative management study; and to declare an emergency.

Impact

The implementation of HB1242 is expected to strengthen communication systems vital for public safety operations throughout North Dakota. By improving interoperability among various agencies, it aims to enhance response times and coordination during emergencies. The appropriation of $100 million in total funding, split between state funds and federal recovery funds, illustrates significant investment in the state's infrastructure to support emergency services. Given the importance of effective communication in disaster response, this bill could have lasting implications for public safety governance in North Dakota.

Summary

House Bill 1242 focuses on the establishment and maintenance of a statewide interoperable radio network aimed at enhancing communication across public safety agencies in North Dakota. The bill seeks to amend existing statutes regarding funding and governance of the statewide network. A key feature of the bill is the imposition of an additional fee on communication services, which will support the administrative and operational costs of this network. Additionally, the bill includes appropriations from both state and federal sources, indicating a robust financial backing for the project that begins in the 2023-2025 biennium.

Sentiment

The sentiment around HB1242 appears largely positive, especially among stakeholders in the emergency management and public safety sectors. Supporters argue that the improved interoperability will lead to better safety outcomes for the state's residents. Legislative discussions have generally highlighted a consensus on the importance of investment in public safety communications. However, there may be concerns regarding the financial implications for local agencies tied to the new fee structure, although specific opposition was not prominently noted in the discussions.

Contention

While the bill has garnered broad support, it has sparked discussions around the governance of the statewide interoperable radio network. The establishment of a legislative management study to examine governance roles and the ongoing costs of the network reflects a recognition of the complexities involved in managing such a system. Notably, the bill's funding model—particularly the mandatory fee—could lead to debates about the financial burden on communication service providers and agencies relying on these services. The repeal of prior legislation related to funding further underscores the need for clarity and alignment in the governance and funding of public safety communication systems.