Missouri lawmakers are seeking to allow new charges on cellphones and wireless devices to help improve the state's 911 system.
Public safety officials say many counties cannot identify the location of someone who uses a cellphone to call 911.
Legislation advancing this year would establish a 3-percent charge on prepaid wireless devices. Proceeds would go for the poison control center and for counties to improve 911.
The proposals also would give counties a new 911 funding option by permitting a monthly fee on devices that can contact 911. The fee would be capped at $1.50 and require voter approval. Counties currently can assess a fee on landline phones or a sales tax. Counties would not be permitted to combine funding options.
