Earlier this month, Congresswoman Norma Torres (D-CA) and Congressman Brian Fitzpatrick (R-PA), joined by several cosponsors, reintroduced the 9-1-1 SAVES Act (H.R. 637), correcting an amended version of the legislation that was introduced earlier this year. This version strengthens the directive to the Office of Management and Budget (OMB), requiring it to reclassify public safety telecommunicators as a protective service occupation rather than an administrative occupation. As APCO reported on January 17, the Representatives originally reintroduced an amended version of the bill (H.R. 540) that only instructed OMB to consider correcting the classification. Restoring the original language provides a much stronger directive to OMB and, if enacted, will have a more immediate impact to address reclassification. APCO appreciates the leadership of Representatives Torres and Fitzpatrick and their continued support for 9-1-1 professionals.
