HARRISBURG, PA — Pennsylvania is poised to transform its emergency response capabilities following the legislative approval of House Bill 1304, a measure aimed at integrating next-generation technology into the state’s 911 communication services. This bill, championed by State Representative Jared Solomon, who chairs the House Veterans Affairs and Emergency Preparedness Committee, seeks to modernize and enhance the efficiency of emergency response systems across the Commonwealth.
House Bill 1304 introduces significant amendments to Title 35 of the Pennsylvania Consolidated Statutes, specifically targeting the enhancement of 911 emergency communication services. The legislation outlines comprehensive changes, including updates to telecommunications management, county service provisions, and the structure of next-generation 911 call delivery. Additionally, it revises the 911 system plan, the management of funds, and the collection of surcharges from both traditional and prepaid wireless telecommunications providers.
Crucially, the bill establishes parameters for addressing authorities and imposes stricter guidelines on the maintenance of the Automatic Location Identification (ALI) database. It also repeals outdated provisions related to multiple-line telephone systems (MLTS), shared communication services, and temporary residencies, while reinforcing legal protections against the unauthorized release of information.
Rep. Solomon emphasized the bill’s potential to revolutionize emergency response efforts in Pennsylvania, noting, “Our 911 emergency departments provide critical and lifesaving services to Pennsylvanians. Unfortunately, our 911 technology has not kept pace with the needs of our communities, which leaves our neighborhoods at risk.” He added, “This is about the safety and well-being of all Pennsylvanians, equipping emergency service workers with tools that will save lives and ensuring that the Commonwealth is ready for any emergency. It could be the difference between life and death in an emergency situation.”
The legislative journey of House Bill 1304 culminated in decisive votes from both the House and Senate on November 13, 2024. With bipartisan support secured, the bill now awaits the signature of Governor Josh Shapiro to be enacted into law.
The enactment of HB1304 promises to significantly upgrade the existing 911 infrastructure, ensuring faster, more accurate response times from emergency services. By adopting cutting-edge technologies, Pennsylvania aims to better protect its residents and enhance the overall effectiveness of its emergency response operations. This legislative success marks a critical step forward in addressing the evolving demands of public safety and emergency preparedness in the 21st century.
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