It’s been talked about before. Now, the funding formula for 9-1-1 will have to change or several 9-1-1 programs across the country may cease to exist.

Illinois HB 3073 is designed to fix a funding gap for 9-1-1. But whether it makes it thru the legislative process is the big question.

Iroquois County 9-1-1 Coordinator Nita Dubble (Due-bull) informed the Iroquois County Board the original $2.00 charge for telephone landlines just doesn’t cut it anymore.

The financial set-up has changed since back then. $300,000 in CD’s and $500,000 was tucked away in a bank account.

Dubble explained, technology upgrades have eaten away at the checkbook.

Projections indicate there’s about a 2-3 year lifespan left. And it’s the County that’s responsible for the program’s existence.

Dubble said her message is a heads-up for the county government. Because the emergency system was created by the local government, it’s that government’s responsibility to make it work.

Iroquois County’s 9-1-1 system isn’t alone. Several across the state are facing the same financial dilemma. A new revenue source is needed.

Legislative discussions have focused on a new fee for cellphones to help cover the loss of landlines.

94.1 FM, WGFA