Congresswoman Torres and Congressman Fitzpatrick Work on Reclassifying 9 1 1 Dispatchers As First Responders

Congresswoman Torres and Congressman Fitzpatrick Work on Reclassifying 9-1-1 Dispatchers As First Responders

Reintroduce Bipartisan 911 SAVES Act

Washington, D.C. - Today, Representatives Norma J. Torres (CA-35) and Brian Fitzpatrick (PA-01) announced the reintroduction of the 9-1-1 Supporting Accurate Views of Emergency Services (SAVES) Act. This bill seeks to officially reclassify 9-1-1 dispatchers as first responders, giving these vital professionals the recognition they deserve.

Currently, 9-1-1 dispatchers are excluded from the first responder designation, despite their critical role in saving lives during emergencies. In fact, under current classifications, certain positions such as school crossing guards are recognized as first responders, but 9-1-1 professionals are instead classified as secretaries .

At no cost to taxpayers, the 9-1-1 SAVES Act will correct this oversight by reclassifying 9-1-1 dispatchers as first responders, recognizing the crucial, often life-saving work they perform every day- from helping deliver babies virtually to suicide prevention to command and control during mass casualty events. The bill has garnered support from a wide range of organizations, including fire, police, 9-1-1, and public safety associations across the country.

"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. "Every day, 9-1-1 professionals are the first point of contact in emergencies, providing vital support to victims, law enforcement, and emergency medical teams. 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-coordinating lifesaving assistance and offering a voice of calm reassurance in moments of crisis," said Congressman Brian Fitzpatrick. "The bipartisan 9-1-1 Saves Act represents an important step forward in recognizing the indispensable role our dispatchers play in the effectiveness of our emergency response teams. These unsung heroes are vital to the safety and security of our communities, and it is long overdue that we honor their extraordinary service."

Full bill text

###