Bill seeks to reclassify 9-1-1 dispatchers

Sens. Richard Burr (R-NC) and Amy Klobuchar (D-MN) recently introduced a measure designed to enhance the Standard Occupational Classification (SOC) to reflect the daily work of  9-1-1 dispatchers.

The Supporting Accurate Views of Emergency Services Act, also known as the 9-1-1 SAVES Act, would change the SOC, a tool used by federal agencies to classify the workforce into useful, occupational categories.

Presently the SOC system categorizes 9-1-1 call takers and dispatchers as Office and Administrative Support Occupations – which also includes secretaries, office clerks and taxi cab dispatchers.

“From dispatching first responders to using advanced technology to retrieve locations, the work 9-1-1 operators do is essential during emergencies,” Burr said. “I’m honored to introduce this bipartisan legislation with my colleague, Sen. Klobuchar, to better recognize the specialized training and critical responsibilities of these professionals.”

Klobuchar said no matter where you are, if you dial 9-1-1, dispatchers are there to connect you to first responders.

“This legislation makes important updates to the classification of 9-1-1 dispatchers to better capture the complex and technical nature of their occupations while also providing valuable statistical tools for federal agencies,” she said. “I’m proud to work with Sen. Burr to properly highlight dispatchers’ roles as safety leaders during times of crisis and the work they do to keep our communities safe.”