Major upgrades for 911 services clear Senate

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PIERRE — State senators gave unanimous approval Friday to modernizing South Dakota’s 911 emergency telephone services and raising the money needed to pay for it.

Sen. Corey Brown, R-Gettysburg, said it “is nothing short of a complete overhaul of the 911 system.”

The vote was 29-0 in favor. Pre-paid wireless devices and services would become subject to a 2 percent tax, while the 75-cent monthly surcharge would increase to $1.25 for most telephone customers.

The 75-cent rate has been in effect nearly 30 years, Brown said, and the actual cost now runs about $1.50 monthly per line.

The additional revenue would pay for modern technology necessary for a statewide system.

The money also would help cover expenses for operating local call centers.

No one spoke against the measure. It now heads to the House of Representatives for action.

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