Legislation targeting mandatory training, certification, adequate funding and retirement benefits ensures that the profession of public safety communications meets defined standards and the high-level expectations of the public. Even though there are similarities, each state has a unique legislative process. The route can be daunting. Protocols must be followed and deadlines must be met. “Learning the ropes” takes time and effort. Seek the advice of those who have experience in your area. Establishing relationships and partnering with all disciplines of public safety strengthens our position and resolve. Each mandate involves some funding, and most cities, counties and states struggle with limited budgets. Clear purpose and justification are required to convince legislators to support legislation and allocate funds.
Sample Legislation
- Model Legislation For EMD
- 911 Fee Law
- Arkansas Training Legislation
- Florida Bill to Add Telecommunicators in Special Risk Retirement (died in committee – informational only)
- Florida Certification Legislation
- FL Proposed Rule Language 2
- NJ Bill #3804 to Designate 9-1-1 Dispatchers as First Responders
- Oregon Standards for Telecommunicators – Basic and Upper Level
- Training Legislation
What Does Success Look Like?
- Are 911 Dispatchers First Responders?
- 911 dispatchers request to be recognized as first responders
- Florida Passes Training Law For 9-1-1
- Dispatchers to Be Recognized as Official First Responders
- California AB-1945 Emergency services: first responders
- California governor signs bill classifying dispatchers as first responders.
- California Dispatchers Classified as First Responders
- NJ bill to designate 911 dispatchers as first responders passes public safety committee
- Public Safety Dispatchers recognized as First Responders in New Legislation
National Advocacy
Law Enforcement Associations
- International Association of Chiefs of Police
- Major County Sheriffs’ Association
- National Association of Chiefs of Police
- National Association of Police Organizations, Inc.
- National Sheriff’s Association
- National Troopers Coalition
Fire Associations
EMS Associations
- Advocates for Emergency Medical Services
- Association of Air Medical Services
- Emergency Nurses Association
- National Association of Emergency Medical Services Physicians
- National Association of Emergency Medical Technicians
- National Association of State Emergency Medical Service Officials
Benevolent Associations
Fraternal Associations
Unions
- American Federation of Labor — Congress of Industrial Organization (AFL-CIO)
- American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees
- International Association of Fire Fighters, AFL-CIO, CLC