New Emergency 911 Act passes third reading

New supports are on the way for 911 call centres now that Bill 15, the Emergency 911 Act, has passed third reading in the Alberta Legislature.

The act includes a new reliable source of funding for Alberta’s 911 call centers that will be implemented later in 2013, with funding flowing to 911 call centres in 2014.

Before the Emergency 911 Act is proclaimed into law, the government will take the following steps:

• Work with wireless service providers to finalize details on the collection of the new 911 levy on cellphones;
• Gather input from stakeholders about the regulations for the act and how funds will be distributed to 911 call centres; and,
• Begin discussions with 911 call centres to establish a framework for the development of provincewide standards, guidelines and policies for 911 service.

The Emergency 911 Act will be proclaimed later in 2013. It includes:

• A reliable source of funding for 911 call centres through a 911 levy on cellphones, which will come into effect later in 2013;
• A way for the government to create, in collaboration with stakeholders, new standards, processes and procedures for 911 call taking;
• Better legal protection for 911 call centres; and,
• Fines for individuals who deliberately abuse 911 service.

“This legislation will go a long way to ensuring Alberta’s 911 call centers and communities have a strong foundation for the future,” said Municipal Affairs Associate Minister Greg Weadick. “Our government is proud to have put in place these supports for 911 call centers, and will be working hard in the coming months on finalizing all the details before implementing the legislation.”

Visit www.aema.alberta.ca if you have any questions about the Emergency 911 Act.