Pennsylvania House Bill HB1304

Pennsylvania 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 6/2/23
• Refer: 6/2/23
• Refer: 6/7/23
• Report Pass: 6/13/23
• Refer: 6/13/23
• Report Pass: 6/14/23
• Engrossed: 6/14/23
• Refer: 6/20/23
• Refer: 10/7/24
• Report Pass: 10/8/24
• Refer: 10/21/24
• Report Pass: 10/22/24
• Refer: 11/13/24
• Report Pass: 11/13/24
• Enrolled: 11/13/24
• Chaptered: 11/18/24
• Passed: 11/18/24

Caption

Amending Title 35 (Health and Safety) of the Pennsylvania

Impact

The enactment of HB1304 is expected to significantly affect funding for 911 systems across Pennsylvania by increasing the surcharge on telephone users, which will directly contribute to the operational costs of emergency services. This bill is framed as a modernization effort, aligning Pennsylvania with contemporary emergency response needs and technologies. It acknowledges the need for continual assessment and modifications of local 911 operations, with provisions for ongoing studies to enhance service effectiveness and integration of state resources. The anticipated outcome is improved efficiency and reliability of emergency response, benefiting both residents and emergency service providers.

Summary

House Bill 1304 addresses enhancements to Pennsylvania's 911 emergency communication services by revising certain statutes within Title 35 (Health and Safety) of the Pennsylvania Consolidated Statutes. Notable amendments include the introduction of a uniform 911 surcharge that will increase from $1.65 to $1.97 starting in January 2024, with adjustments based on the Consumer Price Index in subsequent years. This bill also mandates a study by the Legislative Budget and Finance Committee to identify potential efficiencies in the current 911 system and consider options for consolidating county systems. Additionally, the bill aims to improve the operational framework of emergency response services in alignment with next-generation technology.

Sentiment

Sentiment around the bill appears largely supportive amongst public safety advocates and emergency service professionals who see it as a necessary measure to enhance service delivery and funding. However, there may be concerns from residents regarding potential financial burdens due to the increased surcharge on telephone services. Opponents may suggest that such increases reflect a systemic issue in public safety funding and could lead to challenges in public buy-in. Overall, the recognition of the need for a more robust 911 system appears to resonate positively among stakeholders involved in public safety.

Contention

Critics of HB1304 may contest the surcharge increase, viewing it as an additional financial strain on citizens, especially in economically disadvantaged communities. There may also be concerns related to how the funds generated from the surcharge will be utilized and whether they will be effectively managed by local jurisdictions. Furthermore, while the bill pushes for modernization through Next Generation 911 services, there may be concerns about the capabilities of existing infrastructure to support such advancements, as well as the equitable distribution of resources among diverse localities within Pennsylvania.