New Law Raises Costs of Cell Service

A new law in Pennsylvania will soon increase cell phone bills statewide. House Bill 1304, signed by Governor Josh Shapiro on Monday, raises the 9-1-1 surcharge fee from $1.65 to $1.97. The fee, which helps fund local emergency services, has not been adjusted since 2015. The increase aims to address rising costs for equipment and technology. The new law also extends the surcharge sunset date until 2029, and it’s indexed with inflation, ensuring it remains relevant until the end of the decade.