Legislation seeks to reauthorize emergency system in Pennsylvania

The state House of Representatives recently voted to advance House Bill 859, which would reauthorize Pennsylvania’s 911 system, scheduled to expire June 30, through 2023.

“Four years ago, under legislation which I sponsored, our state 911 law underwent an extensive rewrite to modernize our emergency response system with the many advancements available in communications and technology,” Rep. Steve Barrar (R-Chester/Delaware), who introduced the bill, said. “We also created a 911 oversight board that is working very well, which is another reason that the Commonwealth’s 911 program is in the best place it’s ever been. House Bill 859 would ensure that the progress we’ve made isn’t lost.”

The 2015 law made significant changes to the state’s 911 system to ensure the system is prepared for Next Generation technology. This ensures all communication devices can contact 911 and 911 call centers are able to handle and respond to all calls.

The law also took inventory of county 911 equipment and software and consolidated county 911 centers or public safety answering points to 67.

House Bill 859 now moves to the Senate for further consideration.

Earlier this year, Sen. Mike Regan (R-York) said he would be introducing a 911 authorization bill. Regan’s bill would provide funding through 2021.