Georgia Voters to Consider Next Generation 911 Funding Amendment

In November 2026, Georgia voters will decide on a proposed constitutional amendment that would authorize the creation of the Georgia Next Generation 911 Fund, a dedicated state fund for the expansion, operation, maintenance, and modernization of emergency communications systems statewide.

The measure would not create a new 911 fee. Instead, if approved, it would allow existing 911 fee revenue to be deposited into the dedicated fund, establishing a stable, long-term financing structure for the state's ongoing transition to Next Generation 911 (NG911). The General Assembly placed the amendment on the November ballot during the 2026 Legislative Session.

What Is Next Generation 911?

NG911 is an internet-based emergency communications system designed to replace aging 911 infrastructure. Traditional 911 systems were built primarily to handle voice calls. NG911 is designed to support voice, text, and other forms of digital communication while improving call routing, location accuracy, interoperability, and overall system reliability.

Depending on local system capabilities, NG911 may also allow 911 centers, known as public safety answering points, to receive text messages, images, and video during an emergency, giving dispatchers and first responders more complete information before they arrive.

What the Amendment Would Do

The proposed amendment would establish a constitutional authorization for a dedicated NG911 state fund. Revenue directed into the fund would support the development, operation, and maintenance of Georgia's statewide emergency communications system. The ballot measure gives voters the opportunity to determine whether that dedicated funding structure should be put in place.

Considerations for Georgia Cities

Cities are integral to Georgia's emergency communications network through municipal police and fire departments, local 911 centers, and partnerships with county and regional public safety agencies. The transition to NG911 may affect cities across several areas, including:

Cities that operate or help fund 911 centers may be involved in future discussions around implementation responsibilities, technical standards, and the distribution of available funding. For smaller and rural communities in particular, statewide implementation may require additional coordination to ensure local systems can connect with the broader network and meet applicable technical requirements.

Georgia's NG911 Transition

Georgia has been working toward NG911 implementation for several years. In 2025, the General Assembly passed House Bill 423, which established new standards for 911 systems and expanded the Georgia Emergency Communications Authority's (GECA) technical and cybersecurity expertise. State and local officials have since continued discussions regarding the infrastructure, funding, and workforce needed to complete the NG911 transition across Georgia.

The proposed constitutional amendment is the next step in that process. GMA will continue monitoring the ballot measure and keeping city officials informed about its potential impact on municipal governments and local public safety agencies.