New Hampshire Code of Administrative Rules Emer - Executive Director, Bureau of Emergency Communications
The New Hampshire Code of Administrative Rules is a set of formal regulations created by state agencies to implement and enforce state laws. Each set of rules is grouped under a particular title that corresponds to a specific agency or area of governance. In this case, “Emer” refers to the Executive Director, Bureau of Emergency Communications, which is the entity responsible for managing the state’s emergency communication systems, including 911 services.
Overview of "Emer" Rules
The “Emer” administrative rules guide how the Bureau of Emergency Communications (BEC) operates under the leadership of the Executive Director. These rules are part of the legal framework that governs how emergency services are provided, coordinated, and maintained throughout the state of New Hampshire.
Here’s a breakdown of what is typically covered in these rules:
1. Authority and Purpose
The rules define the legal authority of the Executive Director of the BEC, typically under state statutes (e.g., RSA 106-H).
The purpose is to ensure efficient, reliable, and uniform emergency communication services across the state, including the operation of Enhanced 911 (E911).
2. Definitions
Important terms used throughout the rules are defined (e.g., "PSAP" – Public Safety Answering Point, "ALI" – Automatic Location Identification).
These definitions ensure consistency in interpreting the rules.
3. Responsibilities of the Executive Director
The Executive Director is charged with:
Managing and supervising the operations of New Hampshire’s 911 Emergency Communication System.
Coordinating with:
Local police, fire, and EMS services.
Telephone service providers.
Technology vendors and software providers.
Ensuring the proper training, staffing, and certification of dispatchers and call takers.
Overseeing quality control, response time metrics, and system maintenance.
4. Operation of 911 System
Rules here often address:
Call routing protocols: How emergency calls are directed to the appropriate PSAP.
Location accuracy standards: Ensuring that E911 automatically identifies the caller's location.
Equipment standards: The technology and infrastructure that must be used by carriers and PSAPs.
Data integrity and privacy: Safeguards around the use and storage of caller information.
5. Telecommunications Provider Requirements
All telecommunications providers (landline, mobile, VoIP) operating in New Hampshire must comply with the rules governing E911 services.
They may be required to:
Submit subscriber information for emergency use.
Route 911 calls correctly and consistently.
Provide real-time ALI data.
6. Public Safety Answering Points (PSAPs)
Rules define how PSAPs must operate, including:
Staffing levels.
Call handling procedures.
Logging and recordkeeping.
Inter-agency communication protocols.
7. Training and Certification
The Executive Director is responsible for establishing mandatory training programs for 911 call takers and dispatchers.
Rules may specify:
Curriculum requirements.
Continuing education standards.
Certification and recertification processes.
8. Funding and Surcharges
Rules may address how the system is funded, often through:
A surcharge on telephone bills.
Grant programs.
The Executive Director oversees the use of these funds for system maintenance, upgrades, and staffing.
9. Inspections and Compliance
The Executive Director has the authority to:
Inspect PSAPs and related facilities.
Audit telecommunications providers for compliance.
Impose penalties or corrective actions for violations.
10. Public Complaint and Review Process
A formal process may exist for:
Citizens or agencies to file complaints about service issues.
Reviews or appeals related to decisions made by the BEC.
Summary
The Emer – Executive Director, Bureau of Emergency Communications rules ensure that New Hampshire's 911 system operates reliably and efficiently. They provide the legal and operational structure for everything from telecommunications provider responsibilities to dispatcher training and system funding. The Executive Director plays a critical role in coordinating emergency response systems, enforcing compliance, and adapting to technological advances in emergency communications.
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