The bill amends existing laws related to emergency telephone systems, specifically focusing on the transition to next generation 911 (NG911) systems. It changes the terminology from "next generation 911 network service provider" to "next generation 911 core service provider" and adjusts the allocation of funds generated by the emergency communications service surcharge. The allocation for joint 911 service boards is reduced from 60% to 50% until June 30, 2029, after which it will increase to 55%. Additionally, the bill mandates that starting July 1, 2029, half of the operating surplus revenue will be allocated equally to each public safety answering point (PSAP) for costs related to 911 call management.

Furthermore, the bill outlines transition provisions to implement federal regulations aimed at enhancing the NG911 system. It directs the Department of Homeland Security and Emergency Management to collaborate with the Iowa communications network to procure new technology for the NG911 network and to decommission existing legacy routers once the new system is operational. The bill also requires a study on various aspects of PSAPs, including managed services, operational considerations, and funding arrangements, with recommendations due to the General Assembly by January 1, 2026.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 34A.2, 34A.7A, 34A.8