Pittsburgh, Pa. − April 17, 2026 − In honor of National Telecommunicators Week this week, Senator Lindsey M. Williams (D-Allegheny) is calling on the Senate to pass legislation that would define 911 dispatchers as emergency responders.
“911 dispatchers are the first responders in an emergency,” said Senator Williams. “Telecommunicators must be a calming presence for people in crisis, while helping provide immediate first aid and coordinating on-scene responders. When one emergency is handed off, they answer the phone and help the next person in need, often without a moment in between. Dispatchers deserve recognition for the toll that their work takes, and for the important role they play in keeping our communities safe.”
Act 121 of 2024 made it easier for emergency responders like firefighters, EMS providers, and police officers to seek treatment for Post-Traumatic Stress Injury (PTSI) related to their work by acknowledging that their working conditions can be inherently traumatic. Because telecommunicators are not included in the current definition of “emergency responders,” they have been excluded from this expanded PTSI coverage.
“I have been in public safety for over 38 years, and listening to everyday tragedies doesn’t get any easier,” said Jonathan Jaso, Allegheny County Telecommunications Officer. “I love my job, but this work takes a toll. There are no first responders until 9-1-1 responds first. We deserve to be recognized as emergency responders.”
House Bill 453 and Senate Bill 623 would amend the definition of emergency responder to include 911 dispatchers and telecommunicators, ensuring that they are eligible for the benefits they deserve as first responders. HB453, sponsored by Rep. Jessica Benham (D-36), passed the House last spring and is expected to be voted on by the Senate Veterans Affairs and Emergency Preparedness Committee on Tuesday.
“I look forward to voting for HB 453 in Committee next week, and I hope to see the legislation move to the Senate for its full consideration very soon,” said Senator Williams. “Our telecommunicators have waited long enough to be recognized as the first responders that they are.”
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