Across the nation, policymakers are transforming outdated 911 systems into Next Generation 911 (NG911), an Internet Protocol (IP)-based platform that delivers voice, text, images, video, and precise location information to public safety answering points (PSAPs). For Georgia’s cities, this technology promises faster response times, greater resilience during disasters, and stronger interjurisdictional coordination.

Federal Focus: Building a National Framework

The National League of Cities (NLC), along with municipal associations nationwide, continues to advocate for robust federal investment in NG911 deployment. The objective is to develop a nationwide emergency communications network that can address the evolving demands of today’s public safety environment.

At the federal level:

• Federal Communications Commission (FCC) initiatives are updating rules to support NG911 implementation, including modernization of 911 reliability standards and new interoperability proposals.

• Kari’s Law and the RAY BAUM’S Act require that multi-line telephone systems allow direct dialing to 911, provide exact location information to first responders, and trigger on-site alerts when emergency calls are placed, with all measures integrating seamlessly into NG911 systems.

• Congressional proposals under discussion would provide significant federal funding to help states and local governments upgrade infrastructure, improve cybersecurity, and train 911 professionals in NG911 operations.

• NLC continues to call for grant programs that reflect the financial realities of smaller and rural communities.

State Focus: Georgia’s Legislative Commitment

During the 2025 Legislative Session, Georgia took a major step toward modernizing its emergency communications network with the unanimous passage of House Bill 423, sponsored by Rep. Will Wade. Signed into law by Governor Brian Kemp and effective July 1, 2025, the measure mandates that all new 911 systems in the state meet Wireless Enhanced 911 or Next Generation 911 (NG911) standards.

It also expands the Georgia Emergency Communications Authority’s (GECA) board to include a cybersecurity expert, a GIS expert, and the executive director of the Georgia Technology Authority (GTA), strengthening statewide oversight and technical expertise. This expertise is critical as NG911 networks, like all IP-based systems, face heightened cybersecurity risks.

NG911 will replace outdated landlines, enabling texts, photos, and videos to dispatchers, more precise caller data, and automatic call rerouting during outages or high call volume.

The amended fiscal year 2025 budget includes approximately $5.7 million in initial funding to begin the statewide rollout. This is an important first step in a multi-year effort to modernize Georgia’s 911 infrastructure. GECA is responsible for coordinating implementation, maintaining industry standards, and ensuring interoperability across jurisdictions to enhance reliability, response times, and public safety for communities across Georgia.

Study Committees: Preparing for the Future

Georgia’s NG911 efforts are supported by legislative study committees examining the state’s broader emergency communications needs. These committees bring together lawmakers, local officials, public safety leaders, and technical experts to:

• Evaluate existing 911 infrastructure and identify critical gaps.
• Review funding models and potential state-local cost sharing approaches.
• Assess training needs for 911 professionals transitioning to NG911 systems.
• Explore best practices from other states operating NG911 networks.

Findings from these study committees will inform future legislation, guide GECA’s implementation strategies, and ensure the NG911 transition addresses both urban and rural community needs.

Why This Matters for Georgia Cities

For local governments, NG911 represents more than a technological upgrade, it’s a public safety investment. The ability to receive texts, photos, or precise caller locations can mean the difference between life and death. For example, a domestic violence victim unable to speak can text 911, or a motorist can send a photo of a crash scene, giving responders important context before they arrive.

For smaller and rural communities, the ability to route calls seamlessly across jurisdictions ensures residents aren’t left behind in emergencies.

By aligning federal advocacy with state legislative action and study committee recommendations, Georgia’s cities are poised to benefit from a next-generation system that is faster, smarter, and more reliable. GMA will continue working alongside NLC, state leaders, and local officials to ensure this transition is implemented effectively and equitably across all communities.