Amendment vs bill Committee Amendment No 1 (Adopted) (Voice Vote) vs As Passed the upper

Struck = removed from the bill ยท added = the amendment's new text.

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MISSISSIPPI LEGISLATURE REGULAR SESSION 2025 By:
Adopted COMMITTEE AMENDMENT NO 1 PROPOSED TO Senate Bill No.
Senator(s) DeLano To:
2835 BY:
Technology COMMITTEE SUBSTITUTE FOR SENATE BILL NO.
Committee Amend by striking all after the enacting clause and inserting in lieu thereof the following:
2835 AN ACT TO CREATE THE MISSISSIPPI EMERGENCY COMMUNICATIONS AUTHORITY ACT;
TO DEFINE TERMS;
TO ESTABLISH THE MISSISSIPPI COMMUNICATIONS AUTHORITY WITHIN THE MISSISSIPPI EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT AGENCY;
TO CREATE AN ADVISORY BOARD TO ADVISE THE AUTHORITY;
TO OUTLINE THE AUTHORITY'S POWERS AND DUTIES;
TO ESTABLISH CONFIDENTIALITY;
TO PROVIDE THAT THE ATTORNEY GENERAL SHALL PROVIDE LEGAL SERVICES TO THE AUTHORITY;
TO CREATE AN EMERGENCY COMMUNICATIONS SERVICE CHARGE;
TO PROVIDE FOR COLLECTION OF, HOLDING, AND DISTRIBUTION OF THE SERVICE CHARGE;
TO REQUIRE CERTAIN REGISTRATIONS FROM SERVICE PROVIDERS;
TO PROVIDE THAT WIRELESS EMERGENCY TELEPHONE SERVICE SHALL NOT BE USED FOR PERSONAL USE;
TO REQUIRE THE DEPARTMENT OF REVENUE TO PAY ALL REMITTED EMERGENCY COMMUNICATIONS SERVICE CHARGES OVER TO THE AUTHORITY;
TO PROVIDE FOR A DEPOSIT INTO THE EMERGENCY COMMUNICATIONS PUBLIC SAFETY TRUST FUND;
TO REQUIRE EACH EMERGENCY COMMUNICATIONS DISTRICT TO SUBMIT A FINANCIAL AND PROGRAM AUDIT TO THE AUTHORITY ADVISORY BOARD ANNUALLY;
TO REQUIRE ALL EMERGENCY COMMUNICATION DISTRICTS TO ADOPT AN NG911 PLAN NO LATER THAN DECEMBER 31, 2030;
TO BRING FORWARD SECTION 19-5-301, MISSISSIPPI CODE OF 1972, FOR PURPOSES OF POSSIBLE AMENDMENT;
TO AMEND SECTION 19-5-305, MISSISSIPPI CODE OF 1972, TO ALLOW COUNTIES TO FORM ECDS IN COORDINATION WITH EACH OTHER;
TO BRING FORWARD SECTION 19-5-307, FOR PURPOSES OF POSSIBLE AMENDMENT;
TO AMEND SECTION 19-5-315, MISSISSIPPI CODE OF 1972, TO REMOVE THE PROVISION THAT STIPULATES THAT CHAPTER 5 SHALL BE CONSTRUED TO AMEND, REPEAL OR SUPERSEDE ANY LOCAL AND PRIVATE ACT;
TO BRING FORWARD SECTION 19-5-317, MISSISSIPPI CODE OF 1972, FOR PURPOSES OF POSSIBLE AMENDMENT;
TO AMEND SECTION 33-15-14, MISSISSIPPI CODE OF 1972, TO REQUIRE THE AGENCY TO SERVE AS THE STATEWIDE COORDINATOR FOR EMERGENCY COMMUNICATIONS;
TO BRING FORWARD SECTION 33-15-7, MISSISSIPPI CODE OF 1972, FOR PURPOSES OF POSSIBLE AMENDMENT;
TO BRING FORWARD SECTION 19-5-343, MISSISSIPPI CODE OF 1972, FOR PURPOSES OF POSSIBLE AMENDMENT;
TO REPEAL SECTIONS 19-5-303, 19-5-311, 19-5-313, 19-5-331, 19-5-333, 19-5-335, 19-5-337, S.
B.
No.
2835 *SS26/R419CS* ~ OFFICIAL ~ G3/5 25/SS26/R419CS PAGE 1 19-5-339, 19-5-341, 19-5-343, MISSISSIPPI CODE OF 1972, RELATED TO THE EMERGENCY TELEPHONE SERVICE;
AND FOR RELATED PURPOSES.
BE IT ENACTED BY THE LEGISLATURE OF THE STATE OF MISSISSIPPI:
(b) "Advisory board" or "board" means the thirteen (13) member Mississippi Emergency Communication Authority (MECA) Advisory Board as appointed in Section 3 of this act.
25/HR26/SB2835A.J *HR26/SB2835A.J* P(DJ/KW) (b) "Advisory board" or "board" means the thirteen (13) member Mississippi Emergency Communication Authority (MECA) Advisory Board as appointed in Section 3 of this act.
(d) "Commercial mobile radio service provider" or "CMRS provider" means a person, corporation, or entity licensed by the Federal Communications Commission to offer CMRS in the State of Mississippi, and includes, but is not limited to, broadband personal communications service, cellular radio telephone service, geographic area Specialized Mobile Radio (SMR) services in the 800 MHz and 900 MHz bands that offer real-time, two-way voice service that is interconnected with the public switched network, incumbent S.
(d) "Commercial mobile radio service provider" or "CMRS provider" has the same meaning as defined in 47 CFR 9.3.
B.
No.
2835 *SS26/R419CS* ~ OFFICIAL ~ 25/SS26/R419CS PAGE 2 wide area SMR licensees, or any other cellular or wireless device that has the capability of connecting to a public safety answering point.
and (vi) Interoperates with services and networks used by first responders (and other 911 systems) to facilitate emergency response.
and 25/HR26/SB2835A.J *HR26/SB2835A.J* P(DJ/KW) (vi) Interoperates with services and networks used by first responders (and other 911 systems) to facilitate emergency response.
NG9-1-1 is designed to provide access to emergency services from all connected communications sources and S.
NG9-1-1 is designed to provide access to emergency services from all connected communications sources and provide multimedia data capabilities for Public Safety Answering Points (PSAPs) and other emergency service organizations.
B.
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No.
2835 *SS26/R419CS* ~ OFFICIAL ~ 25/SS26/R419CS PAGE 3 provide multimedia data capabilities for Public Safety Answering Points (PSAPs) and other emergency service organizations.
(j) "ECD" means an emergency communications district created pursuant to Section 19-5-301 et seq., or by a local and private act of the State of Mississippi.
25/HR26/SB2835A.J *HR26/SB2835A.J* P(DJ/KW) (j) "ECD" means an emergency communications district created pursuant to Section 19-5-301 et seq., or by a local and private act of the State of Mississippi.
S.
(l) "Place of primary use" means the street address representative of where the consumer's use of communications services primarily occurs, which must be either the residential street address or the primary business street address of the consumer.
B.
No.
2835 *SS26/R419CS* ~ OFFICIAL ~ 25/SS26/R419CS PAGE 4 (l) "Place of primary use" means the street address representative of where the consumer's use of communications services primarily occurs, which must be either the residential street address or the primary business street address of the consumer.
(p) "Prepaid wireless communications service" means a wireless communications service that allows a caller to access PSAP through a placed call or wireless data connection, which service must be paid for in advance and is sold in predetermined units or dollars of which the number declines with use in a known amount.
(p) "Prepaid wireless communications service" means a wireless communications service that allows a caller to access PSAP through a placed call or wireless data connection, which service must be paid for in advance and is sold in predetermined 25/HR26/SB2835A.J *HR26/SB2835A.J* P(DJ/KW) units or dollars of which the number declines with use in a known amount.
(q) "Service provider" means an entity that provides a service that allows the two-way transmission, conveyance or routing of voice, data, audio, video or any information of signals, including cable and internet protocol services, to a S.
(q) "Service provider" means an entity that provides a service that allows the two-way transmission, conveyance or routing of voice, data, audio, video or any information of signals, including cable and internet protocol services, to a point or between or among points by or through any electronic, radio, satellite, cable, optical, microwave or other medium or method in existence on or after the effective date of this definition, regardless of protocol used for the transmission or conveyance, only if that service is capable of contacting a PSAP by entering or dialing the digits 911 and is subject to applicable federal or state requirements to provide the 911 dialing capability.
B.
No.
2835 *SS26/R419CS* ~ OFFICIAL ~ 25/SS26/R419CS PAGE 5 point or between or among points by or through any electronic, radio, satellite, cable, optical, microwave or other medium or method in existence on or after the effective date of this definition, regardless of protocol used for the transmission or conveyance, only if that service is capable of contacting a PSAP by entering or dialing the digits 911 and is subject to applicable federal or state requirements to provide the 911 dialing capability.
A retail transaction that is effected in person by a consumer at a business location of the seller shall be treated as occurring in this state if that business location is in this state, and any other retail transaction shall be treated as occurring in this state if the retail transaction is treated as occurring in this state for purposes of Section 27-65-19(1)(d)(v)3.c.
A retail transaction that is effected in person by a consumer at a business location of the seller shall be treated as occurring in this state if that business location is in this state, and any other retail transaction shall be treated as occurring in this state if the retail transaction is treated as 25/HR26/SB2835A.J *HR26/SB2835A.J* P(DJ/KW) occurring in this state for purposes of Section 27-65-19(1)(d)(v)3.c.
(t) "Emergency Services IP Network" or "ESInet" means a managed IP network that is used for emergency services communications, and which can be shared by all public safety S.
(t) "Emergency Services IP Network" or "ESInet" means a managed IP network that is used for emergency services communications, and which can be shared by all public safety agencies.
B.
No.
2835 *SS26/R419CS* ~ OFFICIAL ~ 25/SS26/R419CS PAGE 6 agencies.
(x) "State NG911 Plan" refers to a comprehensive strategy developed by the State to transition from 911 to Next Generation 911 technology.
25/HR26/SB2835A.J *HR26/SB2835A.J* P(DJ/KW) (x) "State NG911 Plan" refers to a comprehensive strategy developed by the State to transition from 911 to Next Generation 911 technology.
(y) "NG911 CMRS Grant Fund" established to receive all revenues accrued from the existing CMRS providers' accounts payable fund (as stated in Section 19-5-333(2)(c)(i)) that was levied on CMRS connections since the inception of Sections S.
(y) "NG911 CMRS Grant Fund" established to receive all revenues accrued from the existing CMRS providers' accounts payable fund (as stated in Section 19-5-333(2)(c)(i)) that was levied on CMRS connections since the inception of Sections 19-5-335 and 19-5-343.
B.
No.
2835 *SS26/R419CS* ~ OFFICIAL ~ 25/SS26/R419CS PAGE 7 19-5-335 and 19-5-343.
SECTION 3.
25/HR26/SB2835A.J *HR26/SB2835A.J* P(DJ/KW) SECTION 3.
The authority S.
The authority may contract and be contracted with and defend and bring actions, including, but not limited to, a private right of action to enforce this act.
B.
No.
2835 *SS26/R419CS* ~ OFFICIAL ~ 25/SS26/R419CS PAGE 8 may contract and be contracted with and defend and bring actions, including, but not limited to, a private right of action to enforce this act.
(ii) One (1) member appointed by the Governor selected from two (2) nominees submitted by the GIS Coordinating Council;
25/HR26/SB2835A.J *HR26/SB2835A.J* P(DJ/KW) (ii) One (1) member appointed by the Governor selected from two (2) nominees submitted by the GIS Coordinating Council;
(iv) One (1) member appointed by the Governor selected from two (2) nominees submitted by the Mississippi S.
(iv) One (1) member appointed by the Governor selected from two (2) nominees submitted by the Mississippi Chapter of the Association of Public Safety Communications Officials;
B.
No.
2835 *SS26/R419CS* ~ OFFICIAL ~ 25/SS26/R419CS PAGE 9 Chapter of the Association of Public Safety Communications Officials;
(ix) One (1) member appointed by the Lieutenant Governor who shall be an elected member of a municipal governing authority, city manager, city administrator, or finance officer from a municipality that operates or contracts for the operation of a public safety answering point selected from two (2) nominees submitted by the Mississippi Municipal League;
25/HR26/SB2835A.J *HR26/SB2835A.J* P(DJ/KW) (ix) One (1) member appointed by the Lieutenant Governor who shall be an elected member of a municipal governing authority, city manager, city administrator, or finance officer from a municipality that operates or contracts for the operation of a public safety answering point selected from two (2) nominees submitted by the Mississippi Municipal League;
S.
(xi) One (1) member appointed by the Lieutenant Governor who is a sheriff responsible for managing a public safety answering point selected from two (2) nominees submitted by the Mississippi Sheriffs' Association;
B.
No.
2835 *SS26/R419CS* ~ OFFICIAL ~ 25/SS26/R419CS PAGE 10 (xi) One (1) member appointed by the Lieutenant Governor who is a sheriff responsible for managing a public safety answering point selected from two (2) nominees submitted by the Mississippi Sheriffs' Association;
The initial term for appointments made pursuant to subparagraphs (viii), (ix), (x), (xi), (xii) and (xiii) of paragraph (a) of this subsection shall be from July 1, 2025, until June 30, 2027.
The initial term for appointments made pursuant to subparagraphs 25/HR26/SB2835A.J *HR26/SB2835A.J* P(DJ/KW) (viii), (ix), (x), (xi), (xii) and (xiii) of paragraph (a) of this subsection shall be from July 1, 2025, until June 30, 2027.
Members S.
Members may be appointed to successive terms.
B.
No.
2835 *SS26/R419CS* ~ OFFICIAL ~ 25/SS26/R419CS PAGE 11 may be appointed to successive terms.
MEMA legal shall have a representative and MEMA accounting shall have a representative serving on the board in advisory positions.
MEMA legal shall have a representative and MEMA accounting shall have a representative 25/HR26/SB2835A.J *HR26/SB2835A.J* P(DJ/KW) serving on the board in advisory positions.
(d) Members of the advisory board shall receive no compensation for their services but may be authorized by the authority to receive reimbursement from funds of the authority as provided by state law for travel associated with their service in S.
(d) Members of the advisory board shall receive no compensation for their services but may be authorized by the authority to receive reimbursement from funds of the authority as provided by state law for travel associated with their service in an amount not to exceed the reimbursement authorized for state officers and employees in Section 25-3-41.
B.
No.
2835 *SS26/R419CS* ~ OFFICIAL ~ 25/SS26/R419CS PAGE 12 an amount not to exceed the reimbursement authorized for state officers and employees in Section 25-3-41.
(3) The authority shall administer, receive and audit emergency communications service charges for the benefit of the State NG911 Plan and ECDs throughout the state, as specified in this article, and on such terms and conditions as may be determined to be in the best interest of the operations of ECDs.
(3) The authority shall administer, receive and audit emergency communications service charges for the benefit of the 25/HR26/SB2835A.J *HR26/SB2835A.J* P(DJ/KW) State NG911 Plan and ECDs throughout the state, as specified in this article, and on such terms and conditions as may be determined to be in the best interest of the operations of ECDs.
On or before March 1, 2026, the authority shall develop, establish and publish a defined scope and technical S.
On or before March 1, 2026, the authority shall develop, establish and publish a defined scope and technical standards and operational requirements for a State NG911 Plan.
B.
No.
2835 *SS26/R419CS* ~ OFFICIAL ~ 25/SS26/R419CS PAGE 13 standards and operational requirements for a State NG911 Plan.
(c) Study, evaluate and establish technology standards for the regional and statewide provision of a public safety communications network and NG911 systems;
25/HR26/SB2835A.J *HR26/SB2835A.J* P(DJ/KW) (c) Study, evaluate and establish technology standards for the regional and statewide provision of a public safety communications network and NG911 systems;
(d) Identify and recommend any changes necessary to accomplish more effective, efficient and sustainable emergency S.
(d) Identify and recommend any changes necessary to accomplish more effective, efficient and sustainable emergency communication service across this state, including consolidation and interoperability of PSAPs and or 911 systems, recommending a long-term plan for standardization of operational processes and training, recommending any legislation necessary to implement the long-term strategic State NG911 Plan, and reporting its recommendations to the Legislative Services Office of the Senate and the House of Representatives;
B.
No.
2835 *SS26/R419CS* ~ OFFICIAL ~ 25/SS26/R419CS PAGE 14 communication service across this state, including consolidation and interoperability of PSAPs and or 911 systems, recommending a long-term plan for standardization of operational processes and training, recommending any legislation necessary to implement the long-term strategic State NG911 Plan, and reporting its recommendations to the Legislative Services Office of the Senate and the House of Representatives;
(g) Recommend minimum standards for the operation of public safety answering points and the authority shall develop and implement a quality assurance program internally and shall monitor local and regional PSAP compliance with technical and operational standards, requirements and practices;
25/HR26/SB2835A.J *HR26/SB2835A.J* P(DJ/KW) (g) Recommend minimum standards for the operation of public safety answering points and the authority shall develop and implement a quality assurance program internally and shall monitor local and regional PSAP compliance with technical and operational standards, requirements and practices;
(h) Collect data and statistics regarding the performance and operation of public safety answering points and S.
(h) Collect data and statistics regarding the performance and operation of public safety answering points and coordinate with ECDs to provide technical assistance when requested;
B.
No.
2835 *SS26/R419CS* ~ OFFICIAL ~ 25/SS26/R419CS PAGE 15 coordinate with ECDs to provide technical assistance when requested;
(l) Develop a CMRS Implementation Grant Program for providing the State NG911 Fund and ECDs competitive grants for NG911 implementation consistent with the State NG911 Plan and an approved ECD NG911 plan.
(l) Develop a CMRS Implementation Grant Program for providing the State NG911 Fund and ECDs competitive grants for 25/HR26/SB2835A.J *HR26/SB2835A.J* P(DJ/KW) NG911 implementation consistent with the State NG911 Plan and an approved ECD NG911 plan.
Funds available in the NG911 CMRS Grant Fund shall be used for grant program and S.
Funds available in the NG911 CMRS Grant Fund shall be used for grant program and amounts awarded to ECDs shall be transferred to the ECDs NG911 Implementation Fund for the purposes stated in Section 9 of this act.
B.
No.
2835 *SS26/R419CS* ~ OFFICIAL ~ 25/SS26/R419CS PAGE 16 amounts awarded to ECDs shall be transferred to the ECDs NG911 Implementation Fund for the purposes stated in Section 9 of this act.
(b) Identify and define all ECDs created in Section 19-5-315 throughout the state by geospatial layer.
25/HR26/SB2835A.J *HR26/SB2835A.J* P(DJ/KW) (b) Identify and define all ECDs created in Section 19-5-315 throughout the state by geospatial layer.
ECDs that have within their jurisdiction any zip code designations that do not adhere to ECD boundary lines shall assist the authority in determining the appropriate allocation of Emergency Communications Service Charge for each ECD for S.
ECDs that have within their jurisdiction any zip code designations that do not adhere to ECD boundary lines shall assist the authority in determining the appropriate allocation of Emergency Communications Service Charge for each ECD for scheduling purposes and used in the distribution formula.
B.
No.
2835 *SS26/R419CS* ~ OFFICIAL ~ 25/SS26/R419CS PAGE 17 scheduling purposes and used in the distribution formula.
(e) Apply for and to accept any gifts or grants, loan guarantees, loans of funds, property, or financial or other aid in any form from the federal government or any agency or instrumentality thereof, from the state government or any agency or instrumentality thereof, or from any other source for any or all purposes specified in this article and to comply, subject to the provisions of this article, with the terms and conditions thereof;
(e) Apply for and to accept any gifts or grants, loan guarantees, loans of funds, property, or financial or other aid in any form from the federal government or any agency or instrumentality thereof, from the state government or any agency or instrumentality thereof, or from any other source for any or all purposes specified in this article and to comply, subject to 25/HR26/SB2835A.J *HR26/SB2835A.J* P(DJ/KW) the provisions of this article, with the terms and conditions thereof;
S.
(g) Establish and maintain the Emergency Communications Service Public Safety Trust Fund, the NG911 CMRS Grant Fund, and the State NG911 Fund;
B.
No.
2835 *SS26/R419CS* ~ OFFICIAL ~ 25/SS26/R419CS PAGE 18 (g) Establish and maintain the Emergency Communications Service Public Safety Trust Fund, the NG911 CMRS Grant Fund, and the State NG911 Fund;
(i) Retain during each calendar month an amount not to exceed seven percent (7%) of the total money allocated to the Emergency Communications Public Safety Trust Fund which shall be deposited into a special fund established in the State Treasury to be designated as the "State NG911 Fund." The Emergency Communications Public Safety Trust Fund, and any other funds that may be made available, is to be used for the purpose of administration and operations of the authority and costs directly associated with the implementation and/or maintenance of the State S.
(i) Retain during each calendar month an amount not to exceed seven percent (7%) of the total money allocated to the 25/HR26/SB2835A.J *HR26/SB2835A.J* P(DJ/KW) Emergency Communications Public Safety Trust Fund which shall be deposited into a special fund established in the State Treasury to be designated as the "State NG911 Fund." The Emergency Communications Public Safety Trust Fund, and any other funds that may be made available, is to be used for the purpose of administration and operations of the authority and costs directly associated with the implementation and/or maintenance of the State NG911 Plan.
B.
No.
2835 *SS26/R419CS* ~ OFFICIAL ~ 25/SS26/R419CS PAGE 19 NG911 Plan.
(l) Maintain a registration database of all service providers and impose an administrative fine on any provider that fails to comply with the registration requirements in this act;
25/HR26/SB2835A.J *HR26/SB2835A.J* P(DJ/KW) (l) Maintain a registration database of all service providers and impose an administrative fine on any provider that fails to comply with the registration requirements in this act;
The S.
The information obtained by the audits shall be used solely for the purpose of verifying that service providers are accurately collecting and remitting the emergency communications service charges and may be used for any legal action initiated by the authority against service providers.
B.
No.
2835 *SS26/R419CS* ~ OFFICIAL ~ 25/SS26/R419CS PAGE 20 information obtained by the audits shall be used solely for the purpose of verifying that service providers are accurately collecting and remitting the emergency communications service charges and may be used for any legal action initiated by the authority against service providers.
and (ii) Any claim by the authority seeking to adjust the amount of any collection, remittance, or charge reported by the service provider or imposing any penalty shall be limited to the period of three years prior to the date of the initial notice to the service provider of the audit;
and (ii) Any claim by the authority seeking to adjust the amount of any collection, remittance, or charge reported by the service provider or imposing any penalty shall be limited to 25/HR26/SB2835A.J *HR26/SB2835A.J* P(DJ/KW) the period of three years prior to the date of the initial notice to the service provider of the audit;
S.
(o) Promulgate such rules and regulations as may be necessary to effect the provisions of this act;
B.
No.
2835 *SS26/R419CS* ~ OFFICIAL ~ 25/SS26/R419CS PAGE 21 (o) Promulgate such rules and regulations as may be necessary to effect the provisions of this act;
Further, notwithstanding any other provision of the law, no information so submitted shall be subject to subpoena or otherwise released to any person other than to the submitting service provider, the authority, and the aforesaid independent, third-party auditor without the express permission of the administrator and the submitting service provider.
Further, notwithstanding any other provision of the law, no information so 25/HR26/SB2835A.J *HR26/SB2835A.J* P(DJ/KW) submitted shall be subject to subpoena or otherwise released to any person other than to the submitting service provider, the authority, and the aforesaid independent, third-party auditor without the express permission of the administrator and the submitting service provider.
General information collected by the aforesaid independent, third-party auditor shall only be released or published in aggregate amounts which do not identify or allow S.
General information collected by the aforesaid independent, third-party auditor shall only be released or published in aggregate amounts which do not identify or allow identification of numbers of subscribers of revenues attributable to an individual service provider.
B.
No.
2835 *SS26/R419CS* ~ OFFICIAL ~ 25/SS26/R419CS PAGE 22 identification of numbers of subscribers of revenues attributable to an individual service provider.
Trunks or service lines used to supply service to CMRS providers shall not have an emergency communications service charge levied against them.
Trunks or service lines used to supply service to CMRS providers 25/HR26/SB2835A.J *HR26/SB2835A.J* P(DJ/KW) shall not have an emergency communications service charge levied against them.
For service that provides to multiple locations shared simultaneous outbound voice channel S.
For service that provides to multiple locations shared simultaneous outbound voice channel capacity configured to and capable of accessing a PSAP in different states, the monthly emergency communications service charge shall be assessed only for the portion of such shared voice channel capacity in Mississippi as identified by the service provider's books and records.
B.
No.
2835 *SS26/R419CS* ~ OFFICIAL ~ 25/SS26/R419CS PAGE 23 capacity configured to and capable of accessing a PSAP in different states, the monthly emergency communications service charge shall be assessed only for the portion of such shared voice channel capacity in Mississippi as identified by the service provider's books and records.
and (b) when the same person, business, or organization has several wireless telephones, each CMRS connection shall constitute a separate service.
and (b) when the same person, 25/HR26/SB2835A.J *HR26/SB2835A.J* P(DJ/KW) business, or organization has several wireless telephones, each CMRS connection shall constitute a separate service.
(4) Each service provider shall act as a collection agent for the emergency communications service charge and shall, as part of the provider's normal monthly billing process, collect the S.
(4) Each service provider shall act as a collection agent for the emergency communications service charge and shall, as part of the provider's normal monthly billing process, collect the emergency communications service charges levied upon providers and customers pursuant to subsection (1) of this section and shall, not later than thirty (30) days after the end of the calendar month in which such emergency communications service charges are collected, remit to the Department of Revenue the emergency communications service charges so collected.
B.
No.
2835 *SS26/R419CS* ~ OFFICIAL ~ 25/SS26/R419CS PAGE 24 emergency communications service charges levied upon providers and customers pursuant to subsection (1) of this section and shall, not later than thirty (30) days after the end of the calendar month in which such emergency communications service charges are collected, remit to the Department of Revenue the emergency communications service charges so collected.
(5) Each service provider shall be entitled to deduct and retain from the emergency communications service charges collected by such provider during each calendar month an amount not to exceed one-half percent (0.5%) of the gross aggregate amount of such collections as reimbursement for the actual costs incurred by such provider in collecting, handling and processing such emergency communications service charges.
(5) Each service provider shall be entitled to deduct and retain from the emergency communications service charges collected by such provider during each calendar month an amount not to 25/HR26/SB2835A.J *HR26/SB2835A.J* P(DJ/KW) exceed one-half percent (0.5%) of the gross aggregate amount of such collections as reimbursement for the actual costs incurred by such provider in collecting, handling and processing such emergency communications service charges.
(6) Each service provider shall list the emergency communications service charge as a separate entry on each bill, which includes an emergency communications service charge.
(6) Each service provider that chooses to pass through the charge shall list the emergency communications service charge as a separate entry on each bill, which includes an emergency communications service charge.
S.
(7) The service supplier shall maintain records in a form auditors can access of the amount of emergency communications service charge collected for a period of at least two (2) years from date of collection.
B.
The authority shall develop a schedule for auditing service suppliers and such a schedule shall provide for an audit of a service supplier not more than once every three (3) years.
No.
The audit shall cover a representative sample of the service supplier's customer base in the state.
2835 *SS26/R419CS* ~ OFFICIAL ~ 25/SS26/R419CS PAGE 25 (7) The service supplier shall maintain records of the amount of emergency communications service charge collected for a period of at least two (2) years from date of collection.
The authority shall receive an annual audit of the service supplier's books and records with respect to the collection and remittance of the emergency communications service charge.
The service provider shall have no obligation to take any legal action to enforce the collection of any emergency communications service charge;
The service provider shall have no obligation to take any legal action to enforce the collection of any emergency communications service charge.
however, the service provider shall annually provide the authority, upon request by the authority, with a list of the amount uncollected, together with the names and addresses of those service users who carry a balance that can be determined by the service provider to be nonpayment of such emergency communications service charge.
Good-faith compliance by the service provider with this provision shall constitute a complete defense to any legal action or claim which may result from the service provider's determination of nonpayment and/or the identification of service users in connection therewith.
(b) The marketing name of the provider;
25/HR26/SB2835A.J *HR26/SB2835A.J* P(DJ/KW) (b) The marketing name of the provider;
S.
(c) The publicly traded name of the provider;
B.
No.
2835 *SS26/R419CS* ~ OFFICIAL ~ 25/SS26/R419CS PAGE 26 (c) The publicly traded name of the provider;
and (e) The names and addresses of the providers' board of directors/owners.
and (e) The name, address and telephone number of the representative of the service supplier with whom a local government must coordinate:
Each service provider shall notify the authority of any change in the information prescribed in paragraphs (a) through (e) of this subsection (7).
(i) To implement automatic number identification or automatic location identification, or both, of a telephone service connection;
or (ii) For collection and distribution of the emergency communications service charge and such other matters related to the authority.
Each service provider shall notify the authority of any change in the information prescribed in paragraphs (a) through (e) of this subsection (9).
The amount of the emergency communications service charge shall be either separately stated on an invoice, receipt or other similar document that is provided to the consumer by the seller, or otherwise disclosed to the consumer.
The amount of the emergency communications service charge shall be either separately stated on an invoice, receipt or other similar document that is provided to 25/HR26/SB2835A.J *HR26/SB2835A.J* P(DJ/KW) the consumer by the seller, or otherwise disclosed to the consumer.
(b) The prepaid wireless emergency service charge is the liability of the consumer and not of the seller or of any service provider, except that the seller shall be liable to remit all prepaid wireless emergency service charges that the seller collects from consumers as provided in subsection (1) of this section, including all such charges that the seller is deemed to S.
(b) The prepaid wireless emergency service charge is the liability of the consumer and not of the seller or of any service provider, except that the seller shall be liable to remit all prepaid wireless emergency service charges that the seller collects from consumers as provided in subsection (1) of this section, including all such charges that the seller is deemed to have collected where the amount of the charge has not been separately stated on an invoice, receipt or other similar document provided to the consumer by the seller.
B.
No.
2835 *SS26/R419CS* ~ OFFICIAL ~ 25/SS26/R419CS PAGE 27 have collected where the amount of the charge has not been separately stated on an invoice, receipt or other similar document provided to the consumer by the seller.
(e) The Department of Revenue shall establish procedures by which a seller of prepaid wireless telecommunications service may document that a sale is not a retail transaction, which procedures shall substantially coincide with the procedures for documenting sale for resale transactions for sales and use tax purposes under Title 27, Chapter 65, Mississippi Code of 1972.
(e) The Department of Revenue shall establish procedures by which a seller of prepaid wireless telecommunications service may document that a sale is not a 25/HR26/SB2835A.J *HR26/SB2835A.J* P(DJ/KW) retail transaction, which procedures shall substantially coincide with the procedures for documenting sale for resale transactions for sales and use tax purposes under Title 27, Chapter 65, Mississippi Code of 1972.
S.
(11) The amount of the emergency communications service charge that is collected by a service providers or seller from a consumer, shall not be considered revenue for any purpose and, therefore, shall not be included in the base for measuring any tax, fee, surcharge or other charge that is imposed by this state, any political subdivision of this state or any intergovernmental agency.
B.
No.
2835 *SS26/R419CS* ~ OFFICIAL ~ 25/SS26/R419CS PAGE 28 (11) The amount of the emergency communications service charge that is collected by a service providers or seller from a consumer, shall not be considered revenue for any purpose and, therefore, shall not be included in the base for measuring any tax, fee, surcharge or other charge that is imposed by this state, any political subdivision of this state or any intergovernmental agency.
(13) No service provider shall be liable for damages to any person or entity resulting from or incurred in connection with the service provider's provision of assistance to any investigative or law enforcement officer of the United States, this or any other state, or any political subdivision of this or any other state, in connection with any investigation or other law enforcement activity by such law enforcement officer that the provider believes in good faith to be lawful.
(13) No service provider shall be liable for damages to any person or entity resulting from or incurred in connection with the service provider's provision of assistance to any investigative or law enforcement officer of the United States, this or any other state, or any political subdivision of this or any other state, in connection with any investigation or other law enforcement 25/HR26/SB2835A.J *HR26/SB2835A.J* P(DJ/KW) activity by such law enforcement officer that the provider believes in good faith to be lawful.
(15) The emergency communications service charge provided in Section 6 of this act and the service charge provided in Section 19-5-357 to fund the training of public safety telecommunicators S.
(15) The emergency communications service charge provided in Section 6 of this act and the service charge provided in Section 19-5-357 to fund the training of public safety telecommunicators shall be the only charges assessed to service providers and customers of service providers relating to emergency communications services.
B.
No.
2835 *SS26/R419CS* ~ OFFICIAL ~ 25/SS26/R419CS PAGE 29 shall be the only charges assessed to service providers and customers of service providers relating to emergency communications services.
(c) Beginning on January 1, 2026, a service provider is subject to the public safety charges assessed as described in this section.
25/HR26/SB2835A.J *HR26/SB2835A.J* P(DJ/KW) (c) Beginning on January 1, 2026, a service provider is subject to the public safety charges assessed as described in this section.
(d) After January 1, 2026, a service supplier shall remit to Department of Revenue all assessments of the emergency communication service charge for a calendar month by the fifteenth business day of the following month and thereafter as prescribed in this section.
(d) After January 1, 2026, a service supplier shall remit to Department of Revenue all assessments of the emergency communication service charge for a calendar month by the thirtieth business day of the following month and thereafter as prescribed in this section.
S.
SECTION 7.
B.
No.
2835 *SS26/R419CS* ~ OFFICIAL ~ 25/SS26/R419CS PAGE 30 SECTION 7.
SECTION 8.
25/HR26/SB2835A.J *HR26/SB2835A.J* P(DJ/KW) SECTION 8.
The Department of Revenue shall pay all remitted emergency communications service charges over to the authority in accordance with Section 3(h) of this act, through contract or a memorandum of understanding, within thirty (30) days of receipt, for use by the authority in accordance with the purposes permitted by this act, after deducting an amount, not to exceed one-half percent (0.50%) of collected charges that shall be retained by the department to reimburse its direct costs of administering the S.
The Department of Revenue shall pay all remitted emergency communications service charges over to the authority in accordance with Section 3(h) of this act, through contract or a memorandum of understanding, within thirty (30) days of receipt, for use by the authority in accordance with the purposes permitted by this act, after deducting an amount, not to exceed one-half percent (0.50%) of collected charges that shall be retained by the department to reimburse its direct costs of administering the collection and remittance of emergency communication service charges.
B.
No.
2835 *SS26/R419CS* ~ OFFICIAL ~ 25/SS26/R419CS PAGE 31 collection and remittance of emergency communication service charges.
The funds deposited in the EDC NG911 Implementation Fund shall accrue to the benefit of the ECD.
The funds deposited in the EDC NG911 25/HR26/SB2835A.J *HR26/SB2835A.J* P(DJ/KW) Implementation Fund shall accrue to the benefit of the ECD.
(2) The remainder of the total funds received by an ECD from the Emergency Communications Public Safety Trust Fund shall be deposited into the ECD Operations Fund and shall be limited to S.
(2) The remainder of the total funds received by an ECD from the Emergency Communications Public Safety Trust Fund shall be deposited into the ECD Operations Fund and shall be limited to provide PSAP services, including capital improvements, and in their normal ECD operations, including land mobile radio service.
B.
No.
2835 *SS26/R419CS* ~ OFFICIAL ~ 25/SS26/R419CS PAGE 32 provide PSAP services, including capital improvements, and in their normal ECD operations, including land mobile radio service.
19-5-301.
25/HR26/SB2835A.J *HR26/SB2835A.J* P(DJ/KW) 19-5-301.
The provision of a single, primary three-digit emergency number S.
The provision of a single, primary three-digit emergency number through which emergency services can be quickly and efficiently obtained will provide a significant contribution to law enforcement and other public service efforts by simplifying the notification of public service personnel.
B.
No.
2835 *SS26/R419CS* ~ OFFICIAL ~ 25/SS26/R419CS PAGE 33 through which emergency services can be quickly and efficiently obtained will provide a significant contribution to law enforcement and other public service efforts by simplifying the notification of public service personnel.
19-5-305.
25/HR26/SB2835A.J *HR26/SB2835A.J* P(DJ/KW) 19-5-305.
S.
(3) The ECD shall have the authority to charge each qualified nonpublic user for costs associated with integrating and inclusion of the nonpublic user into the ECD's system.
B.
No.
2835 *SS26/R419CS* ~ OFFICIAL ~ 25/SS26/R419CS PAGE 34 (3) The ECD shall have the authority to charge each qualified nonpublic user for costs associated with integrating and inclusion of the nonpublic user into the ECD's system.
(2) The board of commissioners shall have complete and sole authority to appoint a chairman and any other officers it may deem necessary from among the membership of the board of commissioners.
25/HR26/SB2835A.J *HR26/SB2835A.J* P(DJ/KW) (2) The board of commissioners shall have complete and sole authority to appoint a chairman and any other officers it may deem necessary from among the membership of the board of commissioners.
(4) The board of commissioners shall have authority to employ such employees, experts and consultants as it may deem S.
(4) The board of commissioners shall have authority to employ such employees, experts and consultants as it may deem necessary to assist the board of commissioners in the discharge of its responsibilities to the extent that funds are made available.
B.
No.
2835 *SS26/R419CS* ~ OFFICIAL ~ 25/SS26/R419CS PAGE 35 necessary to assist the board of commissioners in the discharge of its responsibilities to the extent that funds are made available.
SECTION 15.
25/HR26/SB2835A.J *HR26/SB2835A.J* P(DJ/KW) SECTION 15.
* * * ( * * *1) The governing authorities of any municipality which has established an emergency communications district under the provisions of a local and private act enacted prior to the effective date of Section 19-5-301 et seq., may merge such district with * * * another ECD, by order duly adopted and entered on the minutes of the governing authority and after the board of supervisors has duly adopted and entered on its minutes a S.
* * * ( * * *1) The governing authorities of any municipality which has established an emergency communications district under the provisions of a local and private act enacted prior to the effective date of Section 19-5-301 et seq., may merge such district with * * * another ECD, by order duly adopted and entered on the minutes of the governing authority and after the board of supervisors has duly adopted and entered on its minutes a similar order.
B.
No.
2835 *SS26/R419CS* ~ OFFICIAL ~ 25/SS26/R419CS PAGE 36 similar order.
(3) A municipality may, in the form of a written agreement between the governing authorities of the municipality and the ECD it seeks to contract with, and with approval from the Mississippi Emergency Communications Authority, join another ECD.
(3) A municipality may, in the form of a written agreement between the governing authorities of the municipality and the ECD it seeks to contract with, and with approval from the Mississippi 25/HR26/SB2835A.J *HR26/SB2835A.J* P(DJ/KW) Emergency Communications Authority, join another ECD.
(4) An emergency communications district established under this section may serve the jurisdiction of more than one (1) S.
(4) An emergency communications district established under this section may serve the jurisdiction of more than one (1) public agency of the county or municipality or, through mutual written agreements, more than one (1) county or municipality.
B.
No.
2835 *SS26/R419CS* ~ OFFICIAL ~ 25/SS26/R419CS PAGE 37 public agency of the county or municipality or, through mutual written agreements, more than one (1) county or municipality.
(2) No person shall knowingly permit a * * * communications device under his control to be used by another person in a manner described in subsection (1) of this section.
25/HR26/SB2835A.J *HR26/SB2835A.J* P(DJ/KW) (2) No person shall knowingly permit a * * * communications device under his control to be used by another person in a manner described in subsection (1) of this section.
Conviction of any subsequent offense under this section is punishable by a fine not to exceed Ten Thousand Dollars ($10,000.00) or by S.
Conviction of any subsequent offense under this section is punishable by a fine not to exceed Ten Thousand Dollars ($10,000.00) or by imprisonment for a period of time not to exceed three (3) years, or by both such fine and imprisonment.
B.
No.
2835 *SS26/R419CS* ~ OFFICIAL ~ 25/SS26/R419CS PAGE 38 imprisonment for a period of time not to exceed three (3) years, or by both such fine and imprisonment.
(a) Work with the Governor, or his representative, in preparing a State Comprehensive Emergency Management Plan of this state, which shall be integrated into and coordinated with the emergency management plans of the federal government and of other states to the fullest possible extent, and to coordinate the preparation of plans and programs for emergency management by the political subdivisions of the state, such local plans to be integrated into and coordinated with the emergency plan and program of this state.
(a) Work with the Governor, or his representative, in preparing a State Comprehensive Emergency Management Plan of this 25/HR26/SB2835A.J *HR26/SB2835A.J* P(DJ/KW) state, which shall be integrated into and coordinated with the emergency management plans of the federal government and of other states to the fullest possible extent, and to coordinate the preparation of plans and programs for emergency management by the political subdivisions of the state, such local plans to be integrated into and coordinated with the emergency plan and program of this state.
The plan must contain provisions to ensure that the state is prepared for emergencies and minor, major and catastrophic disasters, and the agency shall work closely with S.
The plan must contain provisions to ensure that the state is prepared for emergencies and minor, major and catastrophic disasters, and the agency shall work closely with local governments and agencies and organizations with emergency management responsibilities in preparing and maintaining the plan.
B.
No.
2835 *SS26/R419CS* ~ OFFICIAL ~ 25/SS26/R419CS PAGE 39 local governments and agencies and organizations with emergency management responsibilities in preparing and maintaining the plan.
contain strategies to ensure the availability of adequate public shelter space in each region of the state;
25/HR26/SB2835A.J *HR26/SB2835A.J* P(DJ/KW) contain strategies to ensure the availability of adequate public shelter space in each region of the state;
establish model shelter guidelines for operations, registration, inventory, power generation capability, S.
establish model shelter guidelines for operations, registration, inventory, power generation capability, information management and staffing;
B.
No.
2835 *SS26/R419CS* ~ OFFICIAL ~ 25/SS26/R419CS PAGE 40 information management and staffing;
provide for a comprehensive communications plan;
provide for a comprehensive 25/HR26/SB2835A.J *HR26/SB2835A.J* P(DJ/KW) communications plan;
S.
(iv) Include additional provisions addressing aspects of preparedness, response and recovery, as determined necessary by the agency.
B.
No.
2835 *SS26/R419CS* ~ OFFICIAL ~ 25/SS26/R419CS PAGE 41 (iv) Include additional provisions addressing aspects of preparedness, response and recovery, as determined necessary by the agency.
(vii) Establish guidelines and schedules for annual exercises that evaluate the ability of the state and its political subdivisions to respond to minor, major and catastrophic disasters and support local emergency management agencies.
25/HR26/SB2835A.J *HR26/SB2835A.J* P(DJ/KW) (vii) Establish guidelines and schedules for annual exercises that evaluate the ability of the state and its political subdivisions to respond to minor, major and catastrophic disasters and support local emergency management agencies.
S.
(viii) 1.
B.
No.
2835 *SS26/R419CS* ~ OFFICIAL ~ 25/SS26/R419CS PAGE 42 (viii) 1.
If a municipality elects to establish an emergency management program, it must adopt a city emergency management plan that complies with all standards and requirements applicable to county emergency management plans.
If a municipality elects to establish an emergency management program, it must adopt 25/HR26/SB2835A.J *HR26/SB2835A.J* P(DJ/KW) a city emergency management plan that complies with all standards and requirements applicable to county emergency management plans.
(d) Review periodically political subdivision emergency management plans for consistency with the State Comprehensive S.
(d) Review periodically political subdivision emergency management plans for consistency with the State Comprehensive Emergency Management Plan and standards and requirements adopted under this section.
B.
No.
2835 *SS26/R419CS* ~ OFFICIAL ~ 25/SS26/R419CS PAGE 43 Emergency Management Plan and standards and requirements adopted under this section.
(g) Anticipate trends and promote innovations that will enhance the emergency management system.
25/HR26/SB2835A.J *HR26/SB2835A.J* P(DJ/KW) (g) Anticipate trends and promote innovations that will enhance the emergency management system.
(i) Implement training programs to improve the ability of state and local emergency management personnel to prepare and S.
(i) Implement training programs to improve the ability of state and local emergency management personnel to prepare and implement emergency management plans and programs, and require all local civil defense directors or emergency management directors to complete such training as a condition to their authority to continue service in their emergency management positions.
B.
No.
2835 *SS26/R419CS* ~ OFFICIAL ~ 25/SS26/R419CS PAGE 44 implement emergency management plans and programs, and require all local civil defense directors or emergency management directors to complete such training as a condition to their authority to continue service in their emergency management positions.
(m) Assist political subdivisions with the creation and training of urban search and rescue teams and promote the development and maintenance of a state urban search and rescue program.
(m) Assist political subdivisions with the creation and training of urban search and rescue teams and promote the 25/HR26/SB2835A.J *HR26/SB2835A.J* P(DJ/KW) development and maintenance of a state urban search and rescue program.
The county or municipality may designate any person as S.
The county or municipality may designate any person as agent who has completed training programs required of emergency management directors.
B.
No.
2835 *SS26/R419CS* ~ OFFICIAL ~ 25/SS26/R419CS PAGE 45 agent who has completed training programs required of emergency management directors.
(t) In accordance with Section 33-15-15, create, implement, administer, promulgate, amend and rescind rules regarding the development of the Mississippi Disaster Reservist Program.
25/HR26/SB2835A.J *HR26/SB2835A.J* P(DJ/KW) (t) In accordance with Section 33-15-15, create, implement, administer, promulgate, amend and rescind rules regarding the development of the Mississippi Disaster Reservist Program.
(u) Unless otherwise instructed by the Governor, sponsor and develop mutual aid plans and agreements between the political subdivisions of the state and the Mississippi Band of S.
(u) Unless otherwise instructed by the Governor, sponsor and develop mutual aid plans and agreements between the political subdivisions of the state and the Mississippi Band of Choctaw Indians similar to the mutual aid arrangements with other states referenced in Section 33-15-11(b)(10).
B.
No.
2835 *SS26/R419CS* ~ OFFICIAL ~ 25/SS26/R419CS PAGE 46 Choctaw Indians similar to the mutual aid arrangements with other states referenced in Section 33-15-11(b)(10).
(b) The director, with the approval of the Governor, may employ such technical, clerical, stenographic and other personnel, to be compensated as provided in any appropriation that may be made for such purpose, and may make such expenditures within the appropriation therefor, or from other funds made available to him for purposes of emergency management, as may be necessary to carry out the purposes of this article.
(b) The director, with the approval of the Governor, may employ such technical, clerical, stenographic and other personnel, to be compensated as provided in any appropriation that may be made for such purpose, and may make such expenditures within the 25/HR26/SB2835A.J *HR26/SB2835A.J* P(DJ/KW) appropriation therefor, or from other funds made available to him for purposes of emergency management, as may be necessary to carry out the purposes of this article.
S.
(d) The director, subject to the direction and control of the Governor, shall be the executive head of the emergency management agency and shall be responsible to the Governor for carrying out the program for emergency management of this state.
B.
No.
2835 *SS26/R419CS* ~ OFFICIAL ~ 25/SS26/R419CS PAGE 47 (d) The director, subject to the direction and control of the Governor, shall be the executive head of the emergency management agency and shall be responsible to the Governor for carrying out the program for emergency management of this state.
Section 19-5-343, which provides for collection and remittance of E911 charge, administration of E911 charge, immunity, and exclusivity of prepaid wireless E911 charge, is hereby repealed.
SECTION 20.
SECTION 21.
SECTION 20.
SECTION 22.
SECTION 21.
25/HR26/SB2835A.J *HR26/SB2835A.J* P(DJ/KW) SECTION 22.
Section 19-5-331, Mississippi Code of 1972, which defines certain terms as used in the provisions providing for enhanced wireless emergency telephone service, is hereby repealed.
Section 19-5-331, Mississippi Code of 1972, which defines certain terms as used in the provisions providing S.
Section 19-5-333, Mississippi Code of 1972, is amended as follows:
B.
19-5-333.
No.
(1) There is created a Commercial Mobile Radio Service (CMRS) Board, consisting of eight (8) members to be appointed by the Governor with the advice and consent of the Senate.
2835 *SS26/R419CS* ~ OFFICIAL ~ 25/SS26/R419CS PAGE 48 for enhanced wireless emergency telephone service, is hereby repealed.
The members of the board shall be appointed as follows:
(a) One (1) member from the Northern Public Service Commission District selected from two (2) nominees submitted to the Governor by the Mississippi 911 Coordinators Association;
(b) One (1) member from the Central Public Service Commission District selected from two (2) nominees submitted to the Governor by the Mississippi Chapter of the Association of Public Safety Communication Officers;
(c) One (1) member from the Southern Public Service Commission District selected from two (2) nominees submitted to the Governor by the National Emergency Numbering Association;
(d) Two (2) members who are wireless provider representatives;
(e) One (1) member who is a consumer representing the state at large with no affiliation to the three (3) trade associations or the wireless providers;
25/HR26/SB2835A.J *HR26/SB2835A.J* P(DJ/KW) (f) One (1) member who is a member of the Mississippi Law Enforcement Officers Association selected from two (2) nominees submitted to the Governor by the association;
and (g) One (1) member who is a member of the Mississippi Association of Supervisors selected from two (2) nominees submitted to the Governor by the association.
The initial terms of the board members, as appointed after July 1, 2002, shall be staggered as follows:
The members appointed under paragraph (d) shall serve a term of two (2) years;
the member appointed under paragraph (e) shall serve a term of one (1) year.
After the expiration of the initial terms, the term for all members shall be four (4) years.
(2) The board shall have the following powers and duties:
* * * ( * * *a) To * * * maintain the CMRS Fund as an insured, interest-bearing account * * *.
The revenues which are deposited into the CMRS Fund shall not be monies or property of the state and shall not be subject to appropriation by the Legislature, except for purposes of transferring funds to the NG911 CMRS Grant Fund.
Interest derived from the CMRS Fund * * * may be used to compensate those persons, parties or firms employed by the CMRS Board * * *.
( * * *b) To * * * distribute funds from the CMRS Fund, * * * which shall be used to defray the administrative expenses of the board * * * and to pay the actual costs incurred 25/HR26/SB2835A.J *HR26/SB2835A.J* P(DJ/KW) by such CMRS providers in complying with the wireless E911 service requirements established by the FCC Order and any rules and regulations which are or may be adopted by the FCC pursuant to the FCC Order, including, but not limited to, costs and expenses incurred for designing, upgrading, purchasing, leasing, programming, installing, testing or maintaining all necessary data, hardware and software required in order to provide such service as well as the incremental costs of operating such service.
Sworn invoices must be presented to the board in connection with any request for payment and approved by a majority vote of the board prior to any such disbursement, which approval shall not be withheld or delayed unreasonably.
In no event shall any invoice for payment be approved for the payment of costs that are not related to compliance with the wireless E911 service requirements established by the FCC Order and any rules and regulations which are or may be adopted by the FCC pursuant to the FCC Order, and any rules and regulations which may be adopted by the FCC with respect to implementation of wireless E911 services.
* * * ( * * *c) To contract for the services of accountants, attorneys, consultants, engineers and any other persons, firms or parties the board deems necessary * * *.
* * * ( * * *3) The board shall serve without compensation;
however, members of the board shall be entitled to be reimbursed 25/HR26/SB2835A.J *HR26/SB2835A.J* P(DJ/KW) for actual expenses and travel costs associated with their service in an amount not to exceed the reimbursement authorized for state officers and employees in Section 25-3-41 * * *.
( * * *4) * * * This section shall stand repealed on June 30, 2028.
Section 19-5-333, Mississippi Code of 1972, which creates the Commercial Mobile Radio Service Board and provides for its powers and duties, is hereby repealed.
SECTION 25.
SECTION 26.
SECTION 25.
SECTION 27.
SECTION 26.
SECTION 28.
SECTION 27.
SECTION 29.
SECTION 28.
SECTION 30.
SECTION 29.
S.
25/HR26/SB2835A.J *HR26/SB2835A.J* P(DJ/KW) Further, amend by striking the title in its entirety and inserting in lieu thereof the following:
B.
AN ACT TO CREATE THE MISSISSIPPI EMERGENCY COMMUNICATIONS AUTHORITY ACT;
No.
TO DEFINE TERMS;
2835 *SS26/R419CS* ~ OFFICIAL ~ 25/SS26/R419CS ST:
TO ESTABLISH THE MISSISSIPPI COMMUNICATIONS AUTHORITY WITHIN THE MISSISSIPPI EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT AGENCY;
Mississippi Emergency Communications Act;
TO CREATE AN ADVISORY BOARD TO ADVISE THE AUTHORITY;
PAGE 49 create.
TO OUTLINE THE AUTHORITY'S POWERS AND DUTIES;
TO ESTABLISH CONFIDENTIALITY;
TO PROVIDE THAT THE ATTORNEY GENERAL SHALL PROVIDE LEGAL SERVICES TO THE AUTHORITY;
TO CREATE AN EMERGENCY COMMUNICATIONS SERVICE CHARGE;
TO PROVIDE FOR COLLECTION OF, HOLDING, AND DISTRIBUTION OF THE SERVICE CHARGE;
TO REQUIRE CERTAIN REGISTRATIONS FROM SERVICE PROVIDERS;
TO PROVIDE THAT WIRELESS EMERGENCY TELEPHONE SERVICE SHALL NOT BE USED FOR PERSONAL USE;
TO REQUIRE THE DEPARTMENT OF REVENUE TO PAY ALL REMITTED EMERGENCY COMMUNICATIONS SERVICE CHARGES OVER TO THE AUTHORITY;
TO PROVIDE FOR A DEPOSIT INTO THE EMERGENCY COMMUNICATIONS PUBLIC SAFETY TRUST FUND;
TO REQUIRE EACH EMERGENCY COMMUNICATIONS DISTRICT TO SUBMIT A FINANCIAL AND PROGRAM AUDIT TO THE AUTHORITY ADVISORY BOARD ANNUALLY;
TO REQUIRE ALL EMERGENCY COMMUNICATION DISTRICTS TO ADOPT AN NG911 PLAN NO LATER THAN DECEMBER 31, 2030;
TO BRING FORWARD SECTION 19-5-301, MISSISSIPPI CODE OF 1972, FOR PURPOSES OF POSSIBLE AMENDMENT;
TO AMEND SECTION 19-5-305, MISSISSIPPI CODE OF 1972, TO ALLOW COUNTIES TO FORM ECDS IN COORDINATION WITH EACH OTHER;
TO BRING FORWARD SECTION 19-5-307, FOR PURPOSES OF POSSIBLE AMENDMENT;
TO AMEND SECTION 19-5-315, MISSISSIPPI CODE OF 1972, TO REMOVE THE PROVISION THAT STIPULATES THAT CHAPTER 5 SHALL BE CONSTRUED TO AMEND, REPEAL OR SUPERSEDE ANY LOCAL AND PRIVATE ACT;
TO BRING FORWARD SECTION 19-5-317, MISSISSIPPI CODE OF 1972, FOR PURPOSES OF POSSIBLE AMENDMENT;
TO AMEND SECTION 33-15-14, MISSISSIPPI CODE OF 1972, TO REQUIRE THE AGENCY TO SERVE AS THE STATEWIDE COORDINATOR FOR EMERGENCY COMMUNICATIONS;
TO BRING FORWARD SECTION 33-15-7, MISSISSIPPI CODE OF 1972, FOR PURPOSES OF POSSIBLE AMENDMENT;
TO BRING FORWARD SECTION 19-5-343, MISSISSIPPI CODE OF 1972, FOR PURPOSES OF POSSIBLE AMENDMENT;
TO AMEND SECTION 19-5-333, MISSISSIPPI CODE OF 1972, TO REVISE THE POWERS AND DUTIES OF THE COMMERCIAL MOBILE RADIO SERVICE (CMRS) BOARD;
TO REPEAL SECTIONS 19-5-303, 19-5-311, 19-5-313, 19-5-331, 19-5-335, 19-5-337, 19-5-339, 19-5-341, 19-5-343, MISSISSIPPI CODE OF 1972, RELATED TO THE EMERGENCY TELEPHONE SERVICE;
AND FOR RELATED PURPOSES.
25/HR26/SB2835A.J *HR26/SB2835A.J* P(DJ/KW)