Bill > S1761

This bill aims to recognize public safety dispatchers or telecommunicators as crucial first responders by ensuring they receive the same internal benefits as other first responders. The bill first defines public safety telecommunicators as individuals employed by public safety agencies who are responsible for receiving, processing, transmitting, and dispatching emergency and non-emergency calls via telephone, radio, or other communication devices, including those who are promoted to supervisory roles. Specifically, the legislation mandates that these professionals shall receive equivalent internal benefits to first responders, despite any existing laws or regulations that might previously have treated them differently. The bill explicitly stipulates that this change in benefit status will not alter the telecommunicators' existing compensation or pension benefits, essentially ensuring they gain additional recognition without potentially losing any current financial protections. By formally acknowledging the critical role these communication professionals play in emergency response systems, the bill seeks to provide them with enhanced professional status and recognition.

Budget and Finance, Justice

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/S1761