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HB 263

Public Records

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Alex Rizo

House Bill 263 ensures local 911 districts in Alabama receive at least 80% of 911 Fund revenues, enhancing emergency response and public safety services statewide.

Now in Intergovernmental Affairs Subcommittee
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Bill Summary · HB 263

Summary of House Bill 263: 911 Fund Distribution

Bill Number: HB 263
Title: 911 Fund; further provide for distribution of monies
Status: Enacted
Introduced: February 12, 2025
Classification: Bill
Subject: Public Safety & Emergencies

Purpose and Intent

House Bill 263 aims to amend the distribution of funds from the Alabama 911 Board to local 911 districts. The primary goal is to ensure that these districts receive a more substantial share of the revenues generated from 911 service charges, thereby enhancing public safety communication systems across Alabama.

Key Provisions

  1. Reallocation of Funds:

    • The bill mandates that local 911 districts receive at least 80% of the total receipts from the 911 Fund after a 1% deduction for administrative expenses.
  2. Use of Remaining Funds:

    • The remaining balance of the monthly receipts will be allocated for:
      • Reimbursement to carriers for certain 911 technology upgrades.
      • Funding the training and certification of public safety telecommunicators.
      • Providing advisory services to local districts.
      • Establishing a grant program for districts facing financial hardship.
      • Equally distributing any leftover funds to local districts.
  3. Technical Revisions:

    • The bill includes nonsubstantive, technical revisions to update existing code language to current standards.

Impact

  • Local 911 Districts: The bill directly benefits local 911 districts by ensuring they receive a larger portion of the 911 Fund, which is crucial for maintaining and improving emergency response systems.
  • Public Safety Telecommunicators: Enhanced funding for training and certification will improve the quality of emergency response services.
  • Technology Upgrades: The reimbursement for technology upgrades will help local districts modernize their systems, leading to more efficient emergency responses.

Procedural Timeline

  • February 12, 2025: Bill introduced and referred to the House Committee on Ways and Means General Fund.
  • March 5, 2025: Reported out of committee and placed on the calendar for a second reading.
  • April 8, 2025: Passed the House and sent to the Senate.
  • May 6, 2025: Enrolled and delivered to the Governor for signature.
  • May 14, 2025: Enacted into law.

Conclusion

House Bill 263 represents a significant step towards enhancing the financial support for local 911 districts in Alabama. By reallocating funds and ensuring a minimum distribution, the bill aims to bolster public safety infrastructure and improve emergency response capabilities throughout the state.

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

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