SENATE BILL REPORT

SB 6827

BYSenators Benitz, Kreidler, Bluechel, Madsen, Amondson, Anderson, Warnke and Saling

Studying state-wide 911.

Senate Committee on Energy & Utilities

Senate Hearing Date(s):January 30, 1990; February 1, 1990

Majority Report:     That Substitute Senate Bill No. 6827 be substituted therefor, and the substitute bill do pass.

     Signed by Senators Benitz, Chairman; Metcalf, Nelson, Owen, Patrick, Stratton, Sutherland, Williams.

Senate Staff:Phil Moeller (786-7445)

                February 6, 1990

AS REPORTED BY COMMITTEE ON ENERGY & UTILITIES, FEBRUARY 1, 1990

BACKGROUND:

In Chapter 82.148 RCW, counties are allowed to fund an "emergency services communication system" by imposing an excise tax on each telephone line of up to 50 cents per month.  This tax must be approved by the county voters, and renewed every six years.  An "emergency services communication system" can include a radio or leadline communications network, such as a 911 telephone system.

A 911 telephone system allows the caller to be quickly linked with an emergency dispatch center.  An enhanced 911 system (E911) allows the dispatcher to view the location of the caller on a video monitor.

Presently, six counties have an E911 system in place, covering a majority of the state's telephone access lines.  A statewide system of E911 could contribute to increased safety and better emergency response throughout the state.  A statewide system could also aid in coordinating present emergency response efforts.

SUMMARY:

The Washington Utilities and Transportation Commission (WUTC) shall study, by December 15, 1990, the feasibility of developing a statewide system of E911 telephone service.  The study is to consider the ideal number of routing locations for 911 calls, the most efficient way of transferring emergency response information, cost estimates for continuing and initiating E911 programs, recommendations for state implementation of an E911 system, and recommendations for legislative action.

The WUTC shall report on the results of the study to the Energy and Utilities Committees of the Legislature by January 18, 1991.

The WUTC is directed to create an advisory committee on E911 service to provide advice and information for conducting the study.

EFFECT OF PROPOSED SUBSTITUTE:

The scope of the study is expanded to include consideration of alternatives to E911 in areas where E911 is not practical.  When conducting the study, the WUTC is directed to consult with any other ongoing studies of the state's emergency communication network.

Appropriation:  $50,000 from the public service revolving fund.

Revenue:   none

Fiscal Note:    requested January 29, 1990

Senate Committee - Testified:   James Quackenbush (pro); Jim Roberts (pro); Robb Menaul, Washington State Hospital Association (pro); Susie Tracy, Washington State Medical Association (pro); Jack Doyle