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Committee asks for study of state-operated emergency communications and potential efficiencies
Summary
The Joint Committee adopted a letter requesting a November report on potential efficiencies and cost savings related to state-operated emergency communications, noting that some broadcast licenses held by South Dakota Public Broadcasting cannot be transferred.
The Joint Committee on Appropriations adopted a letter of intent asking agencies to submit a report by Nov. 25 describing potential efficiencies and cost savings that might be possible through organizational restructuring or consolidation of state-operated emergency communications.
Representative Derby introduced the letter and said the paragraph reflects work with South Dakota Public Broadcasting and other agency partners. "Several state agencies currently share responsibility for managing public safety and emergency alert messaging ... Given that the broadcast licenses currently held by South Dakota Public Broadcasting cannot be transferred, please submit to the Joint Committee on Appropriations by November 25 a report describing potential efficiencies and cost savings that might be possible through organization restructuring or consolidation," Derby said.
Nut graf: The LOI directs a cross-agency review of roles among the Department of Public Safety, the Bureau of Information and Telecommunications (including SDPB and State Radio Communications), and the State Broadcasters Association to identify whether reorganization could yield savings or efficiencies while recognizing legal constraints on broadcast licenses.
The committee voted to adopt the LOI; roll call was 17 yeas, 1 excused. No amendment was recorded. The requested report is due Nov. 25 and should address organizational options and any statutory or regulatory constraints.
Ending: The letter formalizes the committee’s request for a written report to inform future appropriations and organizational decisions related to the state’s emergency alert and public safety communications infrastructure.
