Bill > ACR158

This concurrent resolution proposes a constitutional amendment to create a dedicated funding mechanism for New Jersey's 9-1-1 emergency system by establishing a special trust fund account. Starting July 1, 2015, revenues collected from a specific fee on telephone bills would be credited to the "9-1-1 System and Emergency Response Trust Fund Account" and could only be used for specific emergency-related purposes, including funding capital equipment, emergency response training, operating emergency telecommunications services, supporting the Statewide Public Safety Communications Commission, implementing Federal Communications Commission requirements for 9-1-1 service, developing location identification technology, and acquiring replacement equipment for the enhanced 9-1-1 network. The amendment explicitly prohibits the Legislature from borrowing, appropriating, or using these funds for any purpose other than those specifically enumerated, addressing a past practice of using these funds to balance the state budget. If approved, the amendment would be submitted to voters at a general election, with ballot language explaining that a "yes" vote would restrict the use of 9-1-1 fee revenues to emergency response purposes, while a "no" vote would maintain the current system allowing potential alternative uses of the funds.

Military Affairs and Security

https://www.njleg.state.nj.us/bill-search/2024/ACR158