If passed, SB2296 would primarily affect state regulations pertaining to telecommunications service providers, emphasizing the role of wireless and VoIP services in emergency response systems. The bill mandates clearer guidelines for what constitutes a 911 system service provider and outlines their obligations, which may pave the way for more robust infrastructures to handle emergency calls. This centralization and modern approach is expected to not only optimize the handling of emergency calls but also necessitate cooperation among various telecommunications entities to ensure compliance with state laws.
Summary
Senate Bill No. 2296 aims to amend the existing legislation concerning emergency services communications systems in North Dakota. The bill introduces significant updates to the definitions and operations surrounding 911 services, including the delineation of responsibilities for service providers and the integration of advanced technologies for emergency response. By updating these definitions, the bill seeks to enhance the efficiency and reliability of the communications systems that are critical during emergencies, thereby ensuring faster response times and improved public safety outcomes.
Sentiment
The sentiment around SB2296 appears to be largely positive among proponents who believe the legislation will fortify the state's emergency response framework. Advocates argue that improved definitions will lead to better service delivery and heightened public safety, aligning with statewide goals for enhanced emergency preparedness. However, some concerns were raised regarding potential overreach in regulatory measures, particularly from smaller service providers that may find compliance burdensome. These concerns indicate a possibility of opposition focused on the economic impact on smaller telecommunications entities.
Contention
Discussion surrounding SB2296 revealed notable points of contention primarily revolving around the balance between regulation and operational flexibility for service providers. Critics argue that while the intent of the bill to bolster emergency services is commendable, imposing stringent definitions and requirements could inadvertently limit innovation and responsiveness among smaller players in the telecommunications market. There are apprehensions that the administrative burden of compliance could stifle competition and reduce service availability in less populated areas, thus impacting overall access to emergency services.
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.
Definitions relating to multipassenger bicycles, driving while under the influence of intoxicating liquor, open container prohibition, and exempting multipassenger bicycles from the point system; to provide a penalty; and to declare an emergency.
Rural ambulance service district formation, organization, board of director powers, levies, and dissolution and withdrawal procedures, ambulance operations areas, authorization and state financial assistance for emergency medical services, and county emergency medical service levies.
System registries for a comprehensive emergency cardiovascular medical system and safety belt usage by emergency medical services personnel; and to provide for a legislative management study.
Motor vehicle definitions, nondriver photo identification cards, operator's license applications, and expiration of operator's licenses; and to declare an emergency.
The autism voucher; to provide a statement of legislative intent; to provide for a legislative management study; to provide for a report; to provide an effective date; and to declare an emergency.
AN ACT to provide an appropriation for defraying the expenses of the office of the adjutant general; to provide an exemption; to provide a statement of legislative intent; to provide for a legislative management study; to provide for a transfer; and to declare an emergency.
Relating to authorizing a petitioner for a protective order to separate the petitioner's wireless telephone number from the respondent's wireless telephone service account.
Permits court to order transfer of billing responsibility for, and rights to, wireless telephone number to certain victims of domestic violence or stalking.
Permits court to order transfer of billing responsibility for, and rights to, wireless telephone number to certain victims of domestic violence or stalking.
Permits court to order transfer of billing responsibility for, and rights to, wireless telephone number to certain victims of domestic violence or stalking.