HF3230

Purpose of the Bill

The proposed legislation aims to enhance public safety by establishing a "Public Safety Radio and Crime Victims Account" in Minnesota. This bill seeks to support emergency communication systems and provide financial grants to those offering services to crime victims.

Main Provisions

• Fees and their Allocation: The bill introduces a 50-cent monthly fee for users of wireless and wireline telecommunications services capable of making 911 calls. The collected fees will be divided between improving emergency radio communication systems and funding grants for crime victim service providers.
• Public Safety Radio and Crime Victims Account: A new account will be established to collect the fees mentioned above. This account will be solely used for:
  • Purchasing and upgrading equipment for the statewide Allied Radio Matrix for Emergency Response (ARMER) system.
  • Providing grants to crime victim service providers for direct services and advocacy, particularly supporting communities most impacted by crime.
• Reporting Requirements: The bill mandates an annual report by the commissioner on the financial activities and usage of funds within this account, starting in January 2026.
• Expiration: The section of the bill establishing the new fee will expire on June 30, 2033.

Significant Changes to Existing Law

• The bill modifies the fee structure by adding new fees specifically aimed at public safety communication and crime victim assistance.
• It amends several existing statutes to provide detailed guidance on the computation, submission, and appropriation of these fees.
• Adjustments are made to ensure collected fees from prepaid wireless services are managed similarly to other telecommunications services.

Relevant Terms

public safety, radio communication, crime victims, 911 service, emergency telecommunications, ARMER system, telecommunications fee, Minnesota special revenue fund, crime victim grants, emergency communication, prepaid wireless fee.