On March 17, the Providing Resources and Occupational Training for Emotional Crisis and Trauma in 911 Act, or the ‘‘PROTECT 9-1-1 Act,” was introduced in the U.S. House of Representatives. 9-1-1 professionals routinely face significant trauma as they work tirelessly to protect and save lives. We must ensure these professionals have access to the health and wellness support they need. Under the bipartisan leadership of Representatives Robin Kelly (IL), Norma J. Torres (CA) and Brian Fitzpatrick (PA), this important legislation would implement measures to advance health and wellness for public safety telecommunicators. Such measures would include establishing grants for health and wellness programs in emergency communications centers; developing best practices to identify, prevent and treat post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) in public safety telecommunicators; and developing resources to help mental health professionals better assist these personnel.
In her press release, Rep. Kelly notes that the PROTECT 9-1-1 Act is being introduced during National Public Safety Telecommunicators Week, a time for honoring public safety telecommunicators across the country. Rep. Kelly recognizes that 9-1-1 telecommunicators “are the first responders to the first responders.” Rep. Kelly’s press release also quotes Mel Maier, CEO and executive director of APCO International: “Public safety telecommunicators are essential to emergency response, handling intense and high-stakes situations that can take a toll on their physical and mental health. The PROTECT 9-1-1 Act includes important measures to support their health and wellness and ensure these professionals have the resources needed to continue their lifesaving work.”
