Louisiana Cellphone Users Could Pay Millions To Dial 911

When you're trouble and need help fast, you take out your cell phone and dial 911. It seems we'll all be paying increased rates for this service that could total into the millions if Gov. John Bel Edwards signs two bills currently sitting on his desk according wwl.com.

In all, $20 million a year could be raised for local emergency call systems.

We already pay for 911 service, we just might be paying twice as much. Hammond Representative Chris Broadwater's bill could levy a "maximum 40-cent increase for nearly 2.9 million Louisiana wireless customers". In Louisiana, we currently pay between $0.85 - $1.50.

If Gov. John Bel Edwards approves, the proposal would take effect Aug. 1st.