Today the Ohio House of Representatives concurred with the Ohio Senate amendments on House Bill 360, which revises the amount and methods of collections and remittance of the wireless 9-1-1 charge for prepaid wireless services.

House Bill 360, sponsored by Representative Cliff Rosenberger (R-Clarksville) creates a framework to collect a fair point of sale method for the collection of the prepaid wireless 9-1-1 fee, which will help customers have confidence in their wireless service and the fees associated with that service. Under current Ohio law, the E911 prepaid wireless 9-1-1 fee is authorized to be collected using a point of sale method, but the law falls short of actually establishing the method and has resulted in a confusing situation for consumers. The legislation changes the vehicle of collection by charging the prepaid customer directly, similar to monthly customers.

“I’m proud to have had an opportunity to advocate on behalf of the consumers in Ohio,” Rosenberger said. “What we have been able to accomplish with this bill not only improves consumer confidence in a previously murky charge, but with help from many of the key stakeholders, we’ve also been able to improve the administration of the fee, as well as provide for a clear direction for the implementation of Emergency 9-1-1 programs in the future.”

“The Wireless 9-1-1 Fees have played a large role in ensuring emergency services are accessible during the most important moments. These funds have played such an essential role in providing emergency services in my district and many rural areas like it, that we as a legislative body understood the importance of developing a viable plan for the future,” Rosenberger said.

The Senate amendments include reducing the charge for wireless 9-1-1 from $0.28 to $0.25, removing the sunset provision, and transferring 9-1-1 law from the Public Utilities Commission of Ohio to the Department of Public Safety and the Department of Taxation. The Statewide Emergency Services Internet Protocol Network Steering Committee would adopt industry standards and best practices for wireless 9-1-1 services.

The bill now awaits Governor Kasich’s signature and will be effective immediately with his signature.