ATLANTA, Ga. - Georgia's 911 system, first created in 1968, is facing pressure for an overhaul as lawmakers consider how to modernize emergency response statewide.

During a House study committee meeting this week, Aleisha Rucker-Wright, deputy executive director of the Georgia Emergency Communications Authority, testified that private companies like Domino's and Uber currently have more accurate location technology than Georgia's 911 operators. She said that the gap could prove critical during emergencies.

The proposed upgrade, called Next Generation 911, would allow operators to receive not just calls, but also texts, images and videos from people in crisis.

In scenarios such as a school shooting, teachers could send photos or messages, giving first responders a clearer picture of the scene and more precise location data.

"We're going to bring this to the top this year, and people are going to understand. Right, wrong, or indifferent, we haven't kept up," said Rep. Chuck Martin, a Republican who chairs the House study committee on 911 funding.

Several local leaders and 911 professionals testified about financial challenges already facing emergency centers, particularly in rural counties.

While Fulton, Cobb and Cherokee counties have upgraded their systems using local government dollars, smaller counties say the costs of new infrastructure, staffing and training are out of reach.

Rural centers rely heavily on 911 fees collected through monthly phone bills and county revenue, but those funds are limited by population size.

Officials say tourist-heavy areas also miss out on extra revenue, even though visitors may need emergency services.

"It's great in theory, but we will never be able to afford it," said Danielle Rhodes, Stephen County 911 director.

The study committee is expected to continue reviewing funding options through the end of the year. Its recommendations will help determine how -- and when -- Georgia transitions to a statewide Next Generation 911 system.