HARRISBURG, PA — The Pennsylvania Emergency Management Agency has announced that funding for Pennsylvania’s 61 county-based Public Safety Answering Points (PSAPs), commonly known as “911 centers,” is expected to meet or exceed the projection of $370 million for the fiscal year running from April 1, 2024, to March 31, 2025. The second quarter revenue for 2024 was $97.1 million, surpassing the projected $92.5 million.
Commitment to Public Safety
“Our PSAPs, and the dedicated staff who answer the call 24 hours a day, are the backbone of the public safety network in Pennsylvania,” said PEMA Director Randy Padfield. “This revenue increase affirms the Shapiro Administration’s commitment to supporting their long-term, sustainable growth as we continue to build out cutting-edge Next Generation 911 technology.”
Legislative Action and Funding Increases
In 2023, Governor Shapiro signed Act 34, extending the Commonwealth’s 911 program through January 31, 2029. A key component of Act 34 is the increase in funding by an estimated $47.7 million annually, achieved by raising the monthly phone surcharge for 911 services from $1.65 to $1.95 starting March 1, 2024, through January 31, 2026. This fee hike addresses the rising costs of delivering high-quality 911 services across the state.
Next Generation 911 (NG911)
Since 2015, the surcharge has been crucial in supporting the planning, coordination, testing, and implementation of NG911 services across Pennsylvania. NG911 includes enhancements such as Text-to-911 and improved caller location data. Future plans include behind-the-scenes improvements and cost-saving measures like regionalization of services used by individual county PSAPs, better Geographic Information System (GIS) data, and creating redundant systems for seamless information sharing.
“Both the callers who need assistance and the first responders who will provide the help they need are benefiting from this funding,” said PEMA Deputy Director for 911 Greg Kline. “It is our mission to make sure they have the best information, tools, and resources they need to do their jobs to keep residents and visitors safe across Pennsylvania.”
Staffing Needs and Career Opportunities
Approximately 2,500 PSAP telecommunicators in Pennsylvania answer about 15.2 million emergency assistance requests annually. Many counties are currently facing staffing shortages and are actively seeking additional personnel. Those interested in pursuing a career in public safety can find more information on the PEMA website.
Through these initiatives, Pennsylvania aims to ensure that its 911 centers are well-funded and adequately staffed to continue providing essential public safety services.
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