Wednesday, April 4, 2007
Contact: Jessica Robinson, 573-751-0290
Blunt Requests Special Committee to Evaluate 9-1-1 System
JEFFERSON CITY– Gov. Matt Blunt today asked the Senate President Pro Tem and House Speaker to create a joint legislative committee to review current 9-1-1 systems statewide after a homeland security funded report showed Missouri's system has remained unchanged since the 1960s relying on outdated technology to deliver the service.
"9-1-1 service centers are essential to protecting Missourians during crisis situations," Blunt said. "I am requesting a special legislative committee to hold hearings on the efficiency of the 9-1-1 system, and more importantly, to recommend solutions to make certain this vital emergency network works the way Missourians expect it to work when they need it. We must keep pace with rapidly changing communication technology to help ensure the safety and security of Missourians in every part of the state."
The governor asked for a special committee to conduct a series of hearings around the state to listen to local concerns from our first responder communities. According to the report, 77 percent of Missouri 9-1-1 centers have equipment more than six years old, can not locate cell phone callers and in a widespread emergency few 9-1-1 centers would have the ability to communicate with each other. The governor would like the following addressed in order to enhance critical 9-1-1 services:
- Current capabilities of 9-1-1 centers
- Extended coverage and regions without service
- Mapping systems to identify wireless coverage
- Advancing access to 9-1-1 for the deaf and hard of hearing
- Consolidation and regionalizing efforts
The governor said he would meet with the proposed committee following the hearings to discuss their findings and potential solutions.