"211" telephone number system.

Existing law requires a public safety agency, as defined, to maintain a "911" emergency telephone number, as specified, and sets forth the duties of the Division of Telecommunications of the Department of General Services, including the provision of management oversight of statewide telecommunications developments. Existing law authorizes a local public agency, as defined, to establish a nonemergency "311" telephone system, and authorizes the Division of Telecommunications to, among other things, aid local public agencies in the formulation of concepts, methods, and procedures that will improve the operation of the "311" systems and to increase cooperation among public agencies. This bill would authorize the Public Utilities Commission to designate a lead entity for the implementation of a "211" abbreviated telephone dialing system throughout the state to provide information and referral services in accordance with applicable federal law. The bill would provide that a 211 information and referral services provider and its employees, directors, officers, agents, or any public or nonprofit agency that provides information to a "211" system are not liable to any person in a civil action for injuries or losses to persons or property, as a result of an act or omission of the provider or its employees, directors, officers, or agents, in connection with certain specified activities, unless the act or omission constitutes willful or wanton misconduct.