This bill establishes a new section, W.S. 16-9-113, which authorizes the Wyoming Department of Transportation to provide grants to governing bodies for transitioning to or operating next generation 911 systems. These systems will enhance communication capabilities by allowing interactions through text, images, video, and other methods. Governing bodies currently operating a 911 system can apply for grants to cover the costs associated with necessary changes and ongoing operations of the new system. The department is also required to adopt rules for implementing this grant program. If funding is insufficient to cover all approved applications in a given year, the department will proportionately reduce grant distributions.

Additionally, the bill amends the definition section of the existing law to include the new section 16-9-113, replacing the previous range of sections. An appropriation is made for the department to award grants, with funds designated specifically for this purpose from July 1, 2026, to June 30, 2028. The bill stipulates that the department must begin accepting grant applications by January 15, 2027, and it will take effect on July 1, 2026.

Statutes affected:
26LSO-0183 v0.4: 16-9-102