Legislation Would Recognize 9-1-1 Dispatchers as First Responders
Washington, D.C. – Congressman Vern Buchanan (FL-16), Vice Chair of the House Ways and Means Committee, announced he is cosponsoring the 9-1-1 Supporting Accurate Views of Emergency Services (SAVES) Act, bipartisan legislation reintroduced by Congressman Brian Fitzpatrick (PA-01) and Congresswoman Norma J. Torres (CA-35). The bill reclassifies 9-1-1 dispatchers as first responders and recognizes America’s over 100,000 9-1-1 professionals for their work to save lives.
“Every day, 9-1-1 dispatchers are the calm, steady voice on the other end of the line when Americans are facing the worst moments of their lives,” said Congressman Buchanan. “They deserve a classification that reflects the seriousness of that responsibility. I’m proud to join Congresswoman Torres and Congressman Fitzpatrick in the effort to recognize these heroes, and I’ll keep pushing to get it across the finish line.”
“As a former 9-1-1 dispatcher for over 17 years, I know firsthand the critical role dispatchers play in our public safety system,” said Congresswoman Torres. “It’s time we officially recognize their contributions. This small change will have a meaningful impact on the lives of over 100,000 dedicated dispatchers across the United States.”
“Anyone who has dialed 9-1-1 in an emergency understands the critical role of the operator on the other end of the line,” said Congressman Fitzpatrick. “These unsung heroes are vital to the safety and security of our communities, and it is long overdue that we honor their extraordinary service.”
Despite serving as the first point of contact in nearly every emergency, 9-1-1 dispatchers are currently classified as clerical staff. Professions, such as school crossing guards, carry the first responder designation, yet these critical roles don’t. The 9-1-1 SAVES Act corrects that at zero cost to taxpayers, recognizing the more than 100,000 dispatchers nationwide who talk callers through medical emergencies, coordinate law enforcement and fire response and are frequently the first, and only, lifeline for someone in crisis.
The bill has the backing of fire, police, 9-1-1 and public safety associations across the country.
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