Emergency 9-1-1 Center advocates were in Springfield last week to share information about usage and the need for new technology. Recent studies have shown that more than 75 percent of all 9-1-1 emergency calls are made using cellular phones. The advance in cell phone technology has outpaced many call centers’ ability to receive the call information.
Current 9-1-1 call center systems are built on analog technology that cannot accept text messaging, e-mails, video and pictures. Calls can go unanswered because of the technological barrier. Communicating with the center is also difficult for people with hearing or speech difficulties.
Next Generation 9-1-1 technology will allow for better connectivity of 9-1-1 systems and meet the expectations of callers. However, the cost of this technology exceeds current revenues. Illinois 9-1-1 systems are now experiencing a 20 percent shortfall in revenues due to the reduction in use of landline telephones which are charged a higher operating tax than cell phone users pay.
Two bills to update the technology and generate sufficient revenue are languishing in the House Revenue and Finance Committee. HB 5541 and HB 5542 were not acted upon by the committee because of the increased cost to consumers. Call Center staff will need to build public support for the Next Generation 9-1-1 technology and the associated revenue on phone bills.
Observations and comments about state government by State Representative Robert W. Pritchard. District Office 815-748-3494 or E-Mail to bob@pritchardstaterep.com
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