This bill establishes a framework for enhancing emergency telephone services in Wyoming by requiring a study on the transition to next generation 911 services and authorizing a grant program to address funding shortfalls in the current 911 system. The Department of Transportation is tasked with conducting a comprehensive study that will evaluate the governance, operations, expenses, and efficiencies of the 911 system, with results due to the joint corporations, elections, and political subdivisions interim committee by September 1, 2027. Additionally, the bill allows governing bodies that operate 911 systems to apply for grants to cover funding shortfalls, with the department responsible for approving necessary amounts.

The bill also includes an appropriation of $3,750,000 from the legislative stabilization reserve account, designated specifically for the study and grant program. Of this amount, $3,000,000 is allocated for grants to governing bodies, while $750,000 is earmarked for conducting the required study. The Department of Transportation is instructed to begin accepting grant applications by July 1, 2026. Furthermore, the bill amends the definition section of the relevant statute to include the new section created by this act, ensuring clarity in the legal framework. The act is set to take effect immediately upon completion of the necessary legislative processes.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 16-9-102