Bill > SB1296

This bill establishes the Virginia Public-Private Safety Communications Infrastructure Fund (the Fund), which will be managed by the Virginia Resources Authority to provide financial assistance to local governments for improving public safety communication infrastructure. The Fund will be a special nonreverting account in the state treasury, receiving appropriated funds, investment income, and potential private donations. Grants from the Fund will be awarded competitively to localities, with several key prioritization criteria, including serving emergency services (law enforcement, fire, rescue, and medical services), providing regional interoperability, and serving areas with high fiscal stress. The bill defines key terms like "project," which encompasses improvements to public safety radio systems, including Project 25 (P25) radio, broadband-enabled push-to-talk technology, and related communication equipment. Importantly, grants cannot fund an entire project's cost, with no more than 15% of unobligated Fund moneys allocated to grants. The Department responsible for the Fund will establish guidelines for applications, develop funding recommendations, and provide oversight to ensure comprehensive and strategic improvements to local public safety communication systems.

Budget and Finance, Justice

https://lis.virginia.gov/bill-details/20251/SB1296