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SB 278

Misuse of Emergency Communications Systems

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Tommy Wright

Florida law criminalizes misuse of 911/emergency dispatch systems through false or frivolous calls, with penalties enforced via companion bill HB 279 enacted in 2025.

Died in Regulated Industries, companion bill(s) passed, see CS/CS/HB 279 (Ch. 2025-60)
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Bill Summary · SB 278

Legislative bill overview

SB 278 addresses the misuse of emergency communications systems in Florida, establishing criminal penalties and regulations for false, frivolous, or abusive calls to 911 and emergency dispatch centers. The bill died in committee but was superseded by its companion bill CS/CS/HB 279, which was enacted into law (Chapter 2025-60).

Why is this important

Emergency 911 systems are critical infrastructure that save lives, and misuse diverts resources from genuine emergencies. False calls waste taxpayer money, endanger public safety, and can delay response times for actual emergencies. These provisions help protect system integrity and public safety response capacity.

Potential points of contention

  • Severity of penalties: Determining appropriate criminal charges and punishments for different types of misuse (accidental vs. intentional, single vs. repeated calls)
  • Definitional clarity: Precisely defining what constitutes "misuse" versus legitimate emergency calls, especially for mental health crises or language barriers
  • Enforcement challenges: Balancing prosecution of abusers against protecting individuals who call 911 in good faith but may be considered "frivolous" by some standards

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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