North Dakota Ag Connection - Bill Creates Statewide Interoperable Radio Network

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Bill Creates Statewide Interoperable Radio Network
North Dakota Ag Connection - 04/26/2017

Gov. Doug Burgum Tuesday signed House Bill 1178 authorizing the creation of a statewide interoperable radio network to improve communications capabilities for law enforcement, ambulance services and other first responders.

"Responding to the Dakota Access Pipeline protests brought to light critical gaps in state communications infrastructure, with a lack of connectivity putting first responders at risk," Burgum said. "House Bill 1178 recognizes the need for a robust communications system in our rural areas by streamlining and updating technology as part of a phased approach to ensure that help can reach North Dakotans when they need it, regardless of their location in the state."

The bill also creates a fund to support the cost of the interoperable radio network, with revenue coming from a one-half percent increase in the prepaid wireless emergency 911 fee and a 50-cents-per-month fee increase on all assessed communications services.

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