CHAMBERSBURG, PA — The Shapiro Administration is spearheading the modernization of Pennsylvania’s emergency response system with the implementation of Next Generation 911 (NG911) technology, marking the most comprehensive upgrade in the history of the state’s 911 infrastructure. On Wednesday, January 29, 2025, state leaders joined county and local officials to discuss the program’s progress and its critical role in enhancing public safety.
“As technology changes, people expect their 911 system to keep up with new capabilities for communication and the transfer of information,” said PEMA 911 Deputy Greg Kline. “Our 911 system is the backbone of emergency services in Pennsylvania, and these investments are proof that the Shapiro Administration takes public safety seriously.”
Governor Josh Shapiro signed legislation in 2023 to extend support for the 911 system through January 31, 2029. The law increased the monthly 911 surcharge by 30 cents through January 31, 2026, ensuring sustainable funding for the growing costs of maintaining and improving the state’s emergency response capabilities. These financial commitments have facilitated rapid progress, with 97% of counties already transitioned to NG911 as of December 31, 2024, and the remaining counties on track for completion in early 2025.
“The 911 system and the telecommunicators who pick up the phones are literally the lifeline to help for folks in the most immediate need,” said State Representative Chad Reichard. “Modernizing the system improves services to our residents so that they can more quickly and efficiently receive often life-saving assistance from our brave first responders.”
The NG911 initiative has enhanced services at county Public Safety Answering Points (PSAPs), enabling advanced features such as Text-to-911 and improved routing of emergency calls. It also addresses behind-the-scenes improvements, including enhanced Geographic Information System (GIS) data, statewide interconnectivity, and redundancy measures to ensure seamless communication between PSAPs. These upgrades not only improve response capabilities but also create cost-saving efficiencies through regionalization of services.
“Implementing Next Gen 911 not only improves the lives of our local residents, but also ensures the safety of all Pennsylvanians, thanks to the system’s ability to seamlessly connect 911 centers across the state,” said Franklin County Commissioner Chairman Dean Horst.
The modernization project builds upon years of investment, with the 911 surcharge serving as a vital funding source since 2015. The contributions have supported the planning, testing, and implementation of NG911, allowing Pennsylvania’s 2,500 public safety telecommunicators to better serve communities. These professionals answered more than 14 million emergency calls in 2023 alone, demonstrating the critical importance of a robust and modernized emergency response system.
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