53-1-705. New public information services -- state agencies. Before a state agency that provides disaster, emergency, safety, health, or human services starts a new public information telephone line or hotline, the state agency shall consult with the department about using the statewide 2-1-1 system to provide public access to the information. If it is determined that the statewide 2-1-1 system can provide the public information at a lower cost than the establishment of a new telephone line or hotline and that the service fits within the scope of 2-1-1 service, the state agency shall provide funding to the statewide 2-1-1 system to provide the public information service. The funds must be deposited in the state special revenue account established in 53-1-712. The funding amount must be determined based on the funds available, the nature of the information, and the expected call volume.

     History: En. Sec. 5, Ch. 548, L. 2005.