2026-01 Surcharge Increase Proposal (1-Pager)

9-1-1 Can’t Wait

Strengthen the Line that Saves Lives

9-1-1 Wireless Surcharge: What is it?

The 911 wireless surcharge is a $1.00 monthly fee that was last increased in

2013 on cell phone bills in Iowa that helps keep 911 call centers running

and emergency responders ready. When you call 911, this funding ensures

trained dispatchers can answer immediately, pinpoint your location, and

send help fast—whether it’s police, fire, or EMS. But this fee hasn’t

increased in over a decade, even as costs for technology and staffing keep

rising. Without proper funding, 911 services risk delays, and in an

emergency, a few seconds can mean the difference between life and death.

A Decade Without an Update

The current $1.00 monthly 9-1-1 wireless surcharge hasn’t changed since

2013. In that time, the cost of technology, staffing, and maintaining

emergency response systems has steadily increased, yet funding has

stayed flat.

A Small Increase That Makes a Big Difference

We’re proposing a small 15-cent increase, bringing the surcharge to $1.15

per wireless line starting July 1, 2026. For most Iowans, that’s less than the

cost of a single text message per month, but it helps keep our 911 system

strong and responsive.

Adjusting for Inflation Without Adding Burden

To avoid falling behind again, we’re asking for a 2 percent annual

adjustment beginning in fiscal year 2027, rounded to the nearest cent. This keeps the

surcharge aligned with inflation and avoids noticeable changes to monthly

bills.

Supporting the Backbone of Emergency Response

This funding ensures Public Safety Accessing Points (PSAP) can provide trained

dispatchers with the equipment needed to answer immediately, pinpoint your

location, and send help fast—whether it’s police, fire, or EMS. Without proper

funding, delays become more likely, and in an emergency, seconds matter.

Saving the Taxpayer

When the surcharge doesn’t fully cover 911 services, the leftover costs fall on

property taxpayers. This small adjustment helps avoid that

and keeps more money in people’s pockets.

Supporting State Infrastructure During Major Updates

We understand the importance of Next Generation 911. To support that transition, we’re proposing a temporary adjustment to the revenue split by increasing the State’s share by 5%. This would shift the distribution to 45% for the State and 55% for local agencies until June 30, 2028. After that date, the split will revert to the standard 40% for the State and 60% for local agencies. This temporary change helps the State cover part of the cost needed to complete this essential upgrade.