HB 23-1310

House Bill 23-1310, which has been signed into law in Colorado, makes it illegal to misuse emergency call centers (PSAPs) by initiating unnecessary calls or providing false information when you know it's wrong. It also prohibits actions that obstruct the work of these centers or harass their staff. The bill allows PSAPs to issue warnings for such behavior and can refer individuals with behavioral health issues to appropriate services. Violators face a fine of up to $100, ensuring that emergency lines remain clear and effective for actual emergencies.

Official Summary

A public safety answering point (PSAP) is a facility that is equipped and staffed to provide an emergency telephone service. The bill makes it unlawful to misuse a PSAP by: Purposefully initiating communication with the PSAP without reporting an emergency, or without reporting new or amended information related to a previously reported emergency, after being instructed by the PSAP to stop such behavior; Making a report to a PSAP representative when the person knows the information reported is false; Knowingly obstructing the administration of a PSAP; or Making any comment to a PSAP representative with the intent to intimidate or harass the PSAP representative. The bill gives a PSAP the authority to issue a warning for a violation for misuse of a PSAP or, if the PSAP representative has reason to believe the behavior is related to a behavioral health issue, authorizes the PSAP to refer the person to behavioral health services. Notwithstanding whether a person was issued a written warning, a violation for misuse of a PSAP is a civil infraction and is subject to a fine of not more than $100. (Note: This summary applies to this bill as introduced.)