Parliament passed at the second reading on November 14 2008 the law regulating the functioning of the National Emergency Call System with a single European phone number 112. A clause in the law envisions a fine of up to 20 000 leva for hoax calls, which would falsely activate the relevant emergency services in the country, Bulgarian-language media reported.

If the number is used for other than the intended purposes, a fine between 200 and 1000 leva could be imposed. In a case of repeated offence, the fine would be doubled.

The call system was implemented in accordance with European Union regulations and initially was scheduled to go in effect in January 2007, when the country became a full-fledged member. Several months later, the European Commission initiated infringement proceedings against Bulgaria for the unreasonable delay.

The implementation falls within the responsibilities of the Ministry of Emergency Situations (MES), which began preparation of call centres in the beginning of 2008. After another warning was issued last April, MES sped up the process and the system became effective in September 2008.

A call to 112 ensures an immediate, fast and free connection with the state services, which should assist Bulgarian citizens in case of emergencies when their life, health, property and safety are endangered. Special call centres receive the phone call and after collecting all the relevant information, they contact the most appropriate service that would go to the rescue of those in need.