In a significant legislative move, a South Dakota Senate committee has advanced a bill that could lead to a permanent increase in the state’s 911 surcharge. This crucial measure is designed to support local governments in funding their 911 call centers and ensure the safety and efficiency of emergency response systems across South Dakota. The measure comes amid efforts to optimize call center operations and address financial sustainability for essential emergency services.
The current monthly surcharge, which applies to both landline and cellphone services, saw a 75-cent increase last year, climbing from $1.25 to $2. This hike represented the first adjustment since 2012 and was essential in helping local call centers cover approximately 45% of their operational costs, up from a mere 30% previously.
Governor Kristi Noem and state legislators initially adopted the surcharge increase as a temporary measure, set to expire on July 1, 2026. However, the new legislative proposal aims to eliminate this sunset clause, thereby making the change a permanent fixture in the state’s economic landscape.
Jenna Severyn
Proponents of the bill argue that the increased funding is imperative for creating a “stronger and safer South Dakota,” as articulated by Jenna Severyn, a lobbyist representing the South Dakota Police Chiefs Association. Severyn has been a vocal advocate, emphasizing the dire need for sustained financial support to maintain and enhance the operational standards of 911 services statewide.
Jason Husby, the state’s 911 coordinator, highlighted that the surcharge’s previous increment had gone a long way in reducing the burden on local governments, which were previously shouldering the majority of the costs. “Consolidation efforts have been successful,” Husby stated, referring to the reduction of call centers in South Dakota from 43 to 28, a process aimed at enhancing efficiency and reducing duplication of resources.
Despite the advancements, some members of the Senate Judiciary Committee, including the committee chairman, Senator David Wheeler, have voiced concerns regarding the lack of state control over spending and the necessity for further consolidation of call centers. Wheeler, hailing from Huron, expressed apprehension over the surcharge’s financial impact on South Dakotans. He noted, “his no vote in the committee doesn’t mean I’m not going to vote yes” when the bill appears before the full Senate.
Opposition also came from a lobbyist representing the wireless phone industry, who testified against the legislation, arguing that South Dakotans are contributing approximately $8 million more in surcharges annually due to the increase. He urged legislators to delay the removal of the sunset clause until next winter. This delay, he argued, would allow time to study a newly prepared, comprehensive statewide report that maps out 911 operations, providing insights and recommendations for potential further consolidation and efficiencies.
While some lawmakers expressed concern about the surcharge’s economic impact, the majority voted in favor of advancing the bill. The passage of this bill is an essential step for South Dakota, reflecting the state’s commitment to enhancing public safety infrastructure while deliberating the most efficient and fiscally responsible pathways forward.
The issue of maintaining robust emergency services remains paramount in a state where rural communities rely heavily on efficient and responsive 911 systems. As South Dakota continues to grow, the importance of adequate funding and well-organized emergency services cannot be overstated.
As discussions progress, stakeholders and citizens alike are encouraged to engage in dialogue about the balance between financial contributions and operational excellence within the state’s emergency services. The upcoming Senate vote will likely be a pivotal moment for South Dakota, shaping the future framework of its public safety and emergency response capabilities.