Modifies provisions governing prepaid wireless emergency telephone service charges
Impact
The new service charges collected shall be remitted to the Missouri Department of Revenue, which is tasked with administering these funds in alignment with existing sales tax laws. The framework outlined in this bill ensures that revenues generated from these service charges are directed towards the Missouri 911 service trust fund, facilitating robust funding for emergency services and infrastructure. In addition, the bill enables the department to establish necessary protocols for documentation and compliance, thereby furthering the efficiency of fund collection and distribution.
Summary
House Bill 2767 introduces significant modifications to the laws surrounding prepaid wireless emergency telephone service charges in the state of Missouri. The bill aims to repeal the existing provisions stated in section 190.460 and enact new regulations pertaining to these charges, specifying how they are to be collected and allocated. A critical feature of the bill is the introduction of a prepaid wireless emergency telephone service charge that must be applied to each retail transaction of prepaid wireless telecommunication services, which is set at four percent of the sale amount, with the first fifteen dollars of each transaction exempted from this charge.
Contention
While the bill is presented as a means to streamline the funding of emergency services, it has been met with some points of contention. Opponents may raise concerns regarding the potential burden on consumers stemming from additional fees during prepaid wireless service transactions. Moreover, the enforceability of the bill, particularly regarding how local jurisdictions may respond or adapt to these changes, may spur debate among local governments regarding their ability to independently regulate such services. The stipulation that any deviation from the collected charges must be justified in alignment with state law also raises questions on compliance and operational feasibility for sellers.
Capitol complex security provisions modified, database of emergency contact information of elected officials created, security and protective services provided for members of the legislature, Security Services Task Force created, reports required, and money appropriated.