House Approves Governing Board For Radio Network

ANNAPOLIS, Md. (AP) -- The infrastructure for Maryland's emergency radio system is up and running for the eastern half of the state, but some counties aren't signing on until they're guaranteed a voice in how it's managed.

The House of Delegates voted unanimously Tuesday to create a governing board for the radio system. The board would have county representatives working alongside state members. A similar bill is pending in the Senate.

The system allows police, firefighters, paramedics and other emergency workers to communicate smoothly from anywhere inside the network. It's set to cover the entire state by 2016. Officials say this will help in both disasters and daily operations.

Clay Stamp, director of Talbot County's emergency operations, says establishing the management structure is the next crucial step toward getting everyone to participate.

(Copyright 2013 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)