Counties call on state to stop diverting 911 funds

The New York State Association of Counties has released recommendations for strengthening 911 services in New York.
The report outlines the challenges counties face, exposes critical funding issues and provides policy recommendations to build a stronger emergency communications system, including urging the state to end the diversion of 911 funds, according to a news release from the association.
The recommendations come during National Public Safety Telecommunicators Week.
'As we celebrate the heroes who provide comfort, direction and immediate action in times of crisis, this report is a call to action and a reminder that our public safety systems are only as strong as the people and infrastructure behind them,' NYSAC President Ben Boykin, of Westchester County, said in a statement.
'What better way to honor these heroic 911 dispatchers than by providing them with the resources and tools to do what they do best: save lives,' NYSAC Executive Director Stephen J. Acquario said in a statement. 'This report provides a clear path forward to build a safer, smarter 911 system for all New Yorkers and we call on our partners at the state to join us in this effort.'
For decades, counties have managed, operated and funded the state's 911 systems.
'What began as simple call centers have evolved into sophisticated Public Safety Answering Points ... that dispatch emergency services across entire counties,' the release stated. 'As demands on these systems continue to grow, counties are grappling with rising costs, aging infrastructure, staffing shortages and the pressing need to transition to 'Next Generation 911' technology that allows for more advanced communication, including text, photo, video and precise GPS location capabilities.'
'Despite these growing responsibilities, New York state continues to divert a significant portion of the funds collected for emergency communications,' the release stated.
While New Yorkers pay more than $270 million annually through the Public Safety Communications Surcharge, more than $1.3 billion has been redirected to the state's general fund since 2009, according to FCC data cited in the release.
'These diversions have left counties to stretch limited resources while trying to upgrade critical infrastructure and prepare for the next generation of emergency response,' the release stated.
In addition to calling for an end to the diversion of Public Safety Communications Surcharge funds, the report also recommends that counties receive 'consistent, annual funding to maintain and upgrade emergency communications infrastructure.'
To further support local efforts, the report advocates streamlining the state grant process to reduce administrative burdens and expedite critical investments. Finally, it 'highlights the importance of stronger coordination between counties and the state to foster regional partnerships and ensure seamless collaboration during emergencies,' according to the release.
'We cannot afford to continue relying on outdated systems and inconsistent funding,' Boykin said.

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