Sec. 214.

(1) The commission shall issue orders that assign the telephone digits 2-1-1 to community resource information and referral answering points established under subsection (3) and prescribe appropriate interconnection orders to carry out the intent of this section.

(2) Each provider of basic local exchange service in this state shall assign the telephone number 2-1-1 only to a community resource information and referral answering point established under subsection (3).

(3) The commission shall designate a community resource information and referral entity to be the 2-1-1 answering point for various geographical areas within this state. In making its determination, the commission shall consider all of the following:

(a) The recommendations of Michigan 2-1-1, inc.

(b) Whether the relevant state-endorsed community collaborative bodies are in agreement.

(c) Whether the entity has established a framework to assure the provision of coverage of the 2-1-1 telephone number 24 hours per day, 7 days per week.

(d) Whether the entity meets 2-1-1 standards adopted by the Michigan alliance for information and referral systems.

(4) Each community resource information and referral entity designated by the commission to be the 2-1-1 answering point for a particular geographical area within the state shall establish the framework to provide sufficient resources to operate the 2-1-1 telephone number 24 hours per day, 7 days per week.

(5) Not later than April 1, 2006, the commission shall designate an entity to serve as the state 2-1-1 coordinating agency. The designated agency shall assist and provide information and resources in implementing 2-1-1 service in this state. The designated agency shall also coordinate the providing of 2-1-1 services of the community resource information and referral entities designated under subsection (3).

(6) Before a state agency or local unit of government implements a community resource information or referral service, the state agency or local unit of government shall consult with the state 2-1-1 coordinating agency designated by the commission under subsection (5).

(7) By 2008, the commission shall issue orders that assign the telephone digits 2-1-1 to a statewide central routing system connecting regional community resource information and referral answering points established under subsection (3). Each provider of basic local exchange service in the state will reassign the telephone number 2-1-1 to the central system without additional charge.

History: Add. 2000, Act 295, Imd. Eff. July 17, 2000 ;-- Am. 2005, Act 235, Imd. Eff. Nov. 22, 2005