Pennsylvania fee could rise as counties warn of staffing and technology costs

A statewide fee added to every phone line in Pennsylvania could soon increase. Right now, the monthly 911 surcharge is $1.95, but under a new proposal, it would rise by 25 cents.WGAL News 8 Reporter Taylor Hess spoke with Dr. Kyle Copeland from the County Commissioners Association of Pennsylvania ahead of a meeting at the York County 911 Center.Copeland said the increase is needed because 911 systems across the state are facing rising costs, staffing challenges and growing technology needs. He said counties are struggling to retain dispatchers and must invest in updated systems to keep up with community demands.He also said the proposed increase is intended to cover needs through 2029 and is designed to be as accurate as possible — not too high and not too low.If the surcharge does not keep pace with costs, Copeland said counties would have to make up the difference, which could ultimately put more pressure on local property taxpayers.While the meeting is being held in York County, the proposed surcharge increase would affect all 67 counties in Pennsylvania, which are responsible for operating emergency services, including 911 call centers.

YORK, Pa. —

A statewide fee added to every phone line in Pennsylvania could soon increase. Right now, the monthly 911 surcharge is $1.95, but under a new proposal, it would rise by 25 cents.

WGAL News 8 Reporter Taylor Hess spoke with Dr. Kyle Copeland from the County Commissioners Association of Pennsylvania ahead of a meeting at the York County 911 Center.

Copeland said the increase is needed because 911 systems across the state are facing rising costs, staffing challenges and growing technology needs. He said counties are struggling to retain dispatchers and must invest in updated systems to keep up with community demands.

He also said the proposed increase is intended to cover needs through 2029 and is designed to be as accurate as possible — not too high and not too low.

If the surcharge does not keep pace with costs, Copeland said counties would have to make up the difference, which could ultimately put more pressure on local property taxpayers.

While the meeting is being held in York County, the proposed surcharge increase would affect all 67 counties in Pennsylvania, which are responsible for operating emergency services, including 911 call centers.