Van Hollen, Cardin Announce $1.7 Million in Federal Funding to Modernize 911 Services in Maryland

U.S. Senator Chris Van Hollen and Ben Cardin (both D-Md.) announced $1.7 million in federal funding to help 911 call centers in Maryland upgrade to Next Generation 911 (NG911) capabilities. The funding, provided through the U.S. Department of Commerce and U.S. Department of Transportation, will enhance emergency number services by creating a faster, more resilient system that allows digital information to flow seamlessly from the public, through the 911 network, and ultimately to first responders. NG911 will also help 911 call centers manage call overload and better handle disasters.

“911 call centers are the backbone of emergency response in every community in our state. This funding will make sure they’ve got the best technology and are best positioned to serve Maryland families into the future. In the Senate, I will keep fighting to make sure our first responders have the tools they need to keep people safe,” said Senator Van Hollen, a member of the Budget and Appropriations Committees.

“This is life and death. Our 911 call centers are on the frontlines of each and every community and they must always have the tools they need to carry out their mission effectively. This significant federal investment will help Maryland’s operators and first responders to do their jobs better and ultimately save lives in our state for years to come,” said Senator Cardin, ranking member of the Senate Transportation and Infrastructure Subcommittee of the Environment and Public Works Committee.

The 911 Grant Program is jointly administered by the Department of Commerce’s National Telecommunications and Information Administration and the Department of Transportation’s National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

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