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9-1-1 fee increase advances after committee debate over large reserves
Summary
A joint resolution to raise Tennessee's 9-1-1 uniform fee from $1.50 to $1.86 moved to full finance after members debated whether large reserve balances—estimated in testimony at roughly $334 million—are restricted to equipment and thus unavailable for operations.
The Finance, Ways, and Means Subcommittee advanced Senate Joint Resolution 48 on a 8–4 vote after an extended exchange about the 9-1-1 system's finances and what reserves may be used for.
“Reserves are only for equipment replacement,” Chairlady Carringer said in defense of the rate change, arguing that the money is committed to replacement of depreciating systems, backup capacity and planned equipment upgrades. The resolution would ratify a decision by the Tennessee Emergency Communications Board to raise the uniform 9-1-1 rate from $1.50 to $1.86.
Representative Chisholm asked whether the proposed change could be rescinded if a separate TASER study indicated the funding was unnecessary; Carringer said any subsequent change would require the same public process and legislative approval. Chisholm also pressed for context around a figure discussed in the committee—roughly $334 million—that some members described as a cumulative reserve balance. Carringer and other proponents repeatedly clarified those reserves “are only for equipment” and said they are not fungible for operating expenses.
Opponents, including members who questioned the pace of the increase, sought a study or additional statutory flexibility before agreeing to a rate rise. Supporters countered that many local 9-1-1 boards are small and cannot draw on one another's reserves; those boards, they said, brought the proposal to the legislature to provide local control and access to operating funds.
The committee recorded the motion to move SJR 48 to full finance; the clerk announced the tally as 8 ayes and 4 nos. The measure will now go to the full Finance committee for further action.
