SF3432

Purpose of the Bill

The bill aims to improve public safety services by establishing a new financial account called the "public safety radio and crime victims account." It sets regulations for collecting fees from telecommunications services to support emergency response systems and provide funds for crime victim services.

Main Provisions

1. Establishment of Fees:

   • A new fee is introduced for each customer of wireless or wireline telecommunications services capable of making 911 calls, set at 95 cents per month.
   • A separate fee for interoperable radios connected to the statewide Allied Radio Matrix for Emergency Response (ARMER) system, and for crime victim services is set at 50 cents per month.

2. Creation of Accounts:

   • The bill establishes the public safety radio and crime victims account in the special revenue fund.
   • Funds from the new fee will be used to improve public safety radio communications and provide grants to crime victim service providers.

3. Appropriation of Funds:

   • Half of the account funds will go towards grants for emergency communications equipment compatible with the ARMER system.
   • The other half will support organizations providing direct support to victims of crimes like sexual assault, domestic violence, and child abuse.

4. Administration and Reporting:

   • Telecommunications providers must collect the fees, and they are required to provide accurate submission reports verified by sworn declarations.
   • The bill mandates annual reports on account activities and grant distributions to legislative committees overseeing public safety policies.

5. Prepaid Wireless Services:

   • Prepaid services will have a separate fee structure, and these fees are also allocated to the newly established account to support similar aims.

6. Expiration:

   • The regulations and the newly introduced fee will expire on June 30, 2033.

Significant Changes to Existing Law

• The bill amends Minnesota Statute sections related to telecommunications fees, enhancing the funding mechanisms for emergency services.
• It introduces new fees specifically targeting improvements in emergency communication networks and support systems for crime victims.
• Sets a new framework for managing and reporting funds related to these initiatives to ensure transparency and efficiency.

Relevant Terms

public safety, radio communications, crime victims, 911 service fee, ARMER system, telecommunications, wireless services, emergency response, fee collection, direct services for victims, legislative reporting, fund management, special revenue fund, expiration, telecommunications provider.