Bill > HJR38

This resolution, originating from the Alaska State Legislature, urges the United States Congress to pass the Enhancing First Response Act, or similar legislation, to officially recognize public safety telecommunicators, who are the crucial first point of contact in emergencies and provide vital communication for law enforcement, firefighters, and medical responders, as first responders. Currently, the federal Office of Management and Budget classifies these telecommunicators, who often handle high-stress situations and possess specialized emergency medical knowledge, as clerical workers, which limits their access to benefits afforded to other first responders and hinders recruitment and retention efforts. By reclassifying them as a protective service occupation, similar to police officers and firefighters, this act aims to acknowledge their life-saving work and improve their professional standing and support systems.