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Representative Martin proposes constitutional amendment to create state fund for next-generation 911
Summary
Representative Martin introduced House Resolution 1243 to ask voters to create a dedicated, state-level "lockbox" fund for next-generation 911 (NG911) systems; the resolution would be followed by enabling legislation to determine distribution with input from counties and PSAP operators.
Representative Martin presented House Resolution 1243, a proposed constitutional amendment asking Georgia voters to create a dedicated fund to support expansion, maintenance and transition to next-generation 911 across the state.
Martin said the measure would create a lockbox fund and the legislature would return next year with enabling legislation after consultation with counties, cities and public-safety answering point (PSAP) operators to establish distribution mechanics. "We're gonna create a state fund if voters approve this, then we draw back next year the proper distribution mechanism after listening to everyone to get next generation 9-1-1 to all Georgians," Martin said.
Sponsor and the chair noted broad support among local EMS and that the resolution cleared the House without dissent earlier in the process. The proposal was framed around technical and jurisdictional reasons: as cellular calls move geographically, the current local funding model can leave gaps; a state-managed fund would allow coordinated upgrades to NG911 statewide.
The committee did not take a vote on enabling legislation at this meeting; the resolution seeks voter approval of the constitutional amendment and directs future legislative work on distribution and operations.
