(a)    The Department may permit a law enforcement agency of the State or a State unit to connect with and use a computer or communication system established by the Department for statewide use including:

(1)    a voice communication system;

(2)    a data communication system;

(3)    a message switching system;

(4)    the Maryland Interagency Law Enforcement System (MILES);

(5)    the National Crime Information Center (NCIC); and

(6)    the National Law Enforcement Telecommunications System (NLETS).

(b)    (1)    The connection with and use of a computer or communication system under this section is subject to rules adopted by the Secretary to:

(i)    promote the purposes of this title;

(ii)    ensure the effective, economical, and efficient utilization of the entire system; and

(iii)    prevent interference with the law enforcement duties of the Department.

(2)    Violation of a rule adopted under this subsection is a sufficient basis to withdraw permission to connect with and use the computer or communication system.

(c)    (1)    Except as provided in paragraph (2) of this subsection, as provided in the State budget, the State shall pay the cost of rental of the computer and communication equipment and the circuitry necessary for the equipment under this section.

(2)    A law enforcement agency that uses the Department’s computer or communication system shall pay the costs of supplies and other charges for the rental or purchase of terminal devices and the circuitry necessary to connect with the Department’s computer or communication system.