Supporting the goals and ideals of National Public Safety Telecommunicators Week.
- Bill Number
- H.Res. 322
- Origin Chamber
- House
- Congress
- 119th Congress, Session 1
- Policy Area
- Science, Technology, Communications
- Status
- Introduced
- Latest Action
- 2025-04-09: Referred to the House Committee on Energy and Commerce.
- Last Updated
- 2026-05-12T16:04:36Z
AI-Generated Summary
Purpose
This House Resolution (H. Res. 322) aims to express support for National Public Safety Telecommunicators Week, recognizing the vital role of public safety telecommunications professionals (often called 911 dispatchers or telecommunicators) in emergency response and public safety.
Key Provisions
- Background Clauses ("Whereas"): The resolution outlines the critical contributions of telecommunicators, including:
- Relaying information beyond basic communication, such as gathering details on missing or exploited children to aid responses.
- Handling high-stakes calls, like those from hostage situations or suicidal individuals, using negotiation skills to de-escalate crises.
- Providing real-time guidance during emergencies, such as coaching callers on first aid or preventing further harm while collecting information for responders.
- Acknowledging the emotional and physical toll of the job due to long hours and constant availability.
- Noting their role in major emergencies, public protection, and testifying in criminal trials.
- Resolved Actions: The House of Representatives:
- Supports the goals and ideals of National Public Safety Telecommunicators Week.
- Honors the lifesaving contributions of these professionals across the United States.
- Encourages the public to recognize and value their work.
Significant Changes to Existing Law
This is a non-binding resolution, so it introduces no changes to existing laws or statutes. It serves as a symbolic expression of congressional support rather than enacting new policies or requirements.
Potential Impacts
- On Government Agencies: May raise awareness within federal, state, and local agencies about the need to support telecommunicators, potentially influencing future funding or training discussions, though it has no direct enforcement.
- On Citizens: Promotes public appreciation for emergency services, which could indirectly encourage community support or volunteerism in public safety roles.
- On International Relations: No impacts, as the resolution is focused solely on U.S. domestic public safety professionals.
Main Stakeholders Affected
- Public Safety Telecommunicators: Primary beneficiaries, receiving formal recognition for their essential, often overlooked work.
- First Responders (Police, Fire, EMS): Indirectly supported, as telecommunicators provide critical information and coordination during emergencies.
- General Public: Encouraged to value these services, potentially leading to greater civic awareness.
- Government Bodies: The House of Representatives and committees like Energy and Commerce, which handle the resolution's referral.
Notable Legal, Constitutional, or Political Implications
- Legal/Constitutional: None significant; as a simple resolution, it does not require presidential approval, create enforceable rights, or raise constitutional issues. It aligns with Congress's power to express views on national matters under Article I.
- Political: Represents a bipartisan gesture (introduced by representatives from both parties) to honor frontline workers, potentially boosting morale in public safety sectors without partisan controversy. It highlights ongoing discussions about improving emergency response systems but stops short of policy recommendations.
This summary was generated by AI and may contain inaccuracies. Refer to the official source document for the authoritative text.
Sponsor
Rep. Torres, Norma J. [D-CA-35]
Cosponsors (1)
Rep. Fitzpatrick, Brian K. [R-PA-1]
Recent Actions
- 2025-04-09: Referred to the House Committee on Energy and Commerce.
- 2025-04-09: Submitted in House
- 2025-04-09: Submitted in House
Bill Versions
- Supporting the goals and ideals of National Public Safety Telecommunicators Week. — issued 2025-04-09 — PDF (3 pages)