Bill
LC 374
Overview: Bill Number: LC 374, Title: Generally revise 911 laws, Status: (LC) Draft Died in Process, Introduced: September 27, 2024Purpose and Intent: The primary goal of this bill
Overview: Bill Number: LC 374, Title: Generally revise 911 laws, Status: (LC) Draft Died in Process, Introduced: September 27, 2024
Purpose and Intent: The primary goal of this bill is to modernize Montana's 911 emergency response system to improve public safety and ensure reliable access to critical services. The legislation aims to address technological advancements, funding challenges, and coordination issues that have impacted the effectiveness of the 911 system.
Key Provisions:
- Requires the implementation of Next Generation 911 (NG911) technology to enable the transmission of text, images, and video to 911 dispatchers
- Establishes a statewide 911 advisory council to coordinate system upgrades and oversee funding distribution
- Increases the monthly 911 surcharge on phone bills to provide a dedicated revenue stream for system maintenance and improvements
- Mandates regular training and certification for 911 call-takers and dispatchers
- Enhances location tracking capabilities to improve emergency response times
Affected Parties and Impacts:
- Montana residents and visitors would benefit from a more reliable and responsive 911 system, especially in remote or underserved areas
- Local governments and public safety agencies would receive technical and financial support to upgrade their 911 infrastructure
- Telecommunications providers would be required to collect and remit the increased 911 surcharge
Procedural and Timeline Considerations: This bill is currently in the draft stage and has not been formally introduced in the legislature. If passed, the NG911 implementation and other system upgrades would be phased in over a 3-year period, with the new 911 surcharge taking effect on January 1, 2026.
Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.
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