Enacts new GS 143B-1417 (pertaining to text or short message emergency communications), which requires that a PSAP, or public safety answering point (i.e., the public safety agency that receives an incoming 911 call and dispatches appropriate public safety agencies to respond to the call) with the capability to receive text or short message service (SMS) messages must utilize text or SMS messages as an option for a person to contact an appropriate PSAP for emergency assistance.

Appropriates from the General Fund for 2023-25 fiscal biennium to the Department of Information Technology (DIT) $65,000 in recurring funds for the 2023-24 fiscal year and $65,000 for the 2024-25 fiscal year to establish one new FTE position within DIT to coordinate and assist public safety answering points statewide in implementing best practices and community education related to 911 emergency communications via text and SMS. Effective July 1, 2023.