A bill approved by the Missouri House of...

A bill approved by the Missouri House of Representatives Thursday would change the state’s distinction as the only one in the nation that doesn’t charge wireless customers a 911 fee. HB-1573 (http://tinyurl.com/qj5fk43), sponsored by Rep. Jeanie Lauer (R), moves to the Senate where Lauer expects approval. The measure wouldn’t impose a statewide requirement. It authorizes local governments to impose a monthly fee of up to $1.50 on “any communications service capable of contacting 911” solely for funding 911 service in the jurisdiction, if approved by voters. The state now has a fee and sales tax on landlines to fund 911 services. As the number of customers who use that technology has dropped, it has caused a funding shortfall for 911 services, Lauer said.