Idaho is taking a major leap forward in public safety. On July 10, the Idaho Public Safety Communications Commission approved a $15 million grant to upgrade the state’s outdated analog 911 system to Next Generation 911 (NG911)—a secure, digital network that will dramatically improve emergency response capabilities across the state.
This new system will enable dispatch centers to receive real-time caller location, text messages, images, videos, and even live call transcriptions. NG911 will also support precise call routing based on the caller’s exact location, including within large buildings, and is designed to handle high call volumes during disasters.
The upgrade will roll out over 18 months to 42 of Idaho’s 44 counties that are participating in the program. Funding comes from a 25-cent surcharge on phone bills under the State’s Emergency Communications Grant Fee.
In addition, the Commission approved a separate $1.33 million grant to expand Geographic Information System (GIS) support across the state. These funds will help counties—especially the 32 that lack a GIS professional—integrate their mapping systems with NG911 through a dedicated four-person state team.
Idaho officials emphasized that this investment is about saving lives and enhancing the speed and reliability of emergency services statewide. Implementation, training, and public education efforts will be ongoing throughout the transition.