| State Senator Dale Fowler sponsored legislation to amend the Emergency Telephone System Act to explicitly include sheriffs as eligible members on local 9-1-1 boards. The hope is to recognize the role sheriffs play in ensuring the safety and well-being of our communities. House Bill 5128 addresses a longstanding issue by formally allowing sheriffs to serve on local 9-1-1 boards, which are deeply involved in planning, implementing and maintaining our 9-1-1 systems. These boards are responsible for receiving and managing 9-1-1 surcharge funds, authorizing disbursements and hiring necessary staff to support system operations and upgrades. Senator Fowler noted that the inclusion of sheriffs on these boards will ensure that their expertise and insights as law enforcement officers are integrated into the decision-making processes that directly impact emergency response services. The legislation passed the Senate on May 16th and will now advance to the Governor’s desk for his signature. |