7/13/04-A new state law, previously HB2883, charges cellular telephone users in the islands an additional fee to fund and maintain a $5.9-million-a-year mobile 9-1-1 location system.
The cell phone fee, which took effect July 1, adds 66 cents a month to cell phone bills.
In return, consumers across the state will have enhanced 9-1-1 service capable of geographically locating a cell phone caller with the aid of global positioning satellite services.
Enhanced 9-1-1 is a service that allows emergency dispatchers to pinpoint the location and phone number of a person without the caller having to say a word.
The tax revenue generated from the new fee will help build wireless towers and other infrastructure needed to connect the service. A portion of the funds will go to wireless companies, which are required by federal law to have GPS on all cell phones by 2005.

5/5/04-A bill that would require mobile phone users in the state to pay an extra 66 cents on their monthly statement to help pay for enhanced 911 services is headed to Gov. Linda Lingle.
In return, drivers throughout the state would get enhanced 911 services capable of geographically locating a cell phone caller with the aid of global positioning satellite services.
Enhanced 911 is a service that allows emergency dispatchers to pinpoint the location and phone number of a person without the caller having to say a word.
If signed into law, HB2883 would effect July 1.
For bill status, call (808) 587-0478.