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Bill

HB 1067

Regional emergency communications authorities; creation and powers.

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Keith Hodges

Creates regional emergency communications authorities in Virginia to coordinate 911 and emergency dispatch systems across multiple jurisdictions, potentially improving response coordination but raising local control and funding concerns.

Approved by Governor-Chapter 730 (effective 7/1/2026)
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Bill Summary · HB 1067

Legislative bill overview

HB 1067 would establish regional emergency communications authorities in Virginia, creating new governmental entities with powers to coordinate and manage emergency communication systems across multiple jurisdictions. The bill enables these authorities to operate independently while potentially receiving state support and coordination.

Why is this important

Emergency communications (911 systems, dispatch coordination, alert networks) are critical infrastructure affecting public safety response times and disaster management. Currently fragmented across local jurisdictions, regional coordination could improve efficiency but raises questions about funding, governance, and local control over emergency services.

Potential points of contention

  • Local control vs. regionalization: Counties and cities may resist ceding emergency communications authority to regional bodies, fearing loss of direct control over their 911 systems and emergency responses
  • Funding and cost allocation: Unclear how these authorities would be funded and whether costs would be shared fairly across participating jurisdictions, potentially disadvantaging rural or smaller communities
  • Governance structure: Questions about voting power, representation, and decision-making authority—whether larger jurisdictions would dominate smaller ones in regional decision-making

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

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