Relating to the authority of the Commission on State Emergency Communication to determine the 9-1-1 service fee.
Impact
The legislation directly impacts the funding structure for 9-1-1 services across Texas. By reducing the allowable service fee, the bill aims to alleviate some of the financial burden on consumers while ensuring that funds continue to support emergency communication services. The new limit will apply only to fees imposed after the effective date of the bill, meaning that previously set fees will remain governed by existing laws. This could potentially influence how local agencies manage their budgets for emergency services in the future.
Summary
House Bill 4609 focuses on amending the provisions concerning the authority of the Commission on State Emergency Communication in Texas, specifically regarding the determination of the 9-1-1 service fee. The bill proposes to set a cap on this fee at 40 cents per month for each telecommunications connection, which is a reduction from the previous maximum of 50 cents. This change reflects the state’s ongoing efforts to adjust funding models for essential services and ensure that costs remain manageable for consumers while maintaining service quality.
Contention
Discussion around HB4609 may raise questions about the adequacy of funding for 9-1-1 services given the fee reduction. Supporters of the bill might argue that lowering the fee is a necessary measure to protect Texas residents from high costs, while opponents could express concerns regarding the sustainability of funding for essential emergency services. A significant point of contention could be how these changes will affect the operational capabilities of emergency service providers and whether it will lead to a reduction in service quality over time.
Relating to the powers and duties of the Health and Human Services Commission and the transfer to the commission of certain powers and duties from the Department of Family and Protective Services.
Relating to eligibility for membership on and the regulation of horse racing by the Texas Racing Commission and a prohibition on the conduct of greyhound or other dog racing as live events in this state; creating a criminal offense; authorizing a fee.
Relating to the nonsubstantive revision of the health and human services laws governing the Health and Human Services Commission, Medicaid, and other social services.
Relating to the powers and duties of the Health and Human Services Commission and the transfer to the commission of certain powers and duties from the Department of Family and Protective Services.
Relating to the authorization, licensing, and regulation of casino gaming and sports wagering in this state, to the creation, powers, and duties of the Texas Gaming Commission, to the support of the horse racing industry and reform of horse racing and greyhound racing, and to other provisions related to gambling; imposing and authorizing administrative and civil penalties; imposing taxes; imposing and authorizing fees; requiring occupational licenses; creating criminal offenses.