HB 1702

This bill directs the Tennessee advisory commission on intergovernmental relations (TACIR) to perform a study of this state's emergency communications system. The study must include all of the following:  An analysis of the current funding model for emergency communications systems in this state, and a comparison of the funding models of other states.  An analysis of the different operating structures of emergency communications districts (ECDs), along with the benefits or disadvantages of each.  An organizational chart of all ECDs from leadership down to the public safety answering points (PSAPs).  Methods to increase operational and financial consistency and uniformity of all ECDs in this state.  A discussion regarding the consolidation of ECDs and analysis of ECD call sharing, particularly in rural areas.  The rationale behind maintaining multiple ECDs and whether a uniform, statewide system would be beneficial.  An analysis of requiring direct dispatch protocol at all PSAPs.  Any other related topic TACIR finds would be of interest to the general assembly, along with recommendations for legislation. This bill requires TACIR to file the completed study with the speaker of the senate and the speaker of the house of representatives on or before December 1, 2026. ON FEBRUARY 23, 2026, THE SENATE ADOPTED AMENDMENT #1 AND PASSED SENATE BILL 1898, AS AMENDED. AMENDMENT #1 changes the date TACIR must file the completed study with the speaker of the senate and speaker of the house of representatives from on or before December 1, 2026, to on or before January 31, 2027.