HI SR72

Urges counties (Honolulu, Hawaii, Kauai, and Maui) to recognize 911 emergency services dispatchers as first responders in their respective jurisdictions.

Recognizes that 911 dispatchers are part of critical public safety infrastructure and often the first public safety employees to handle emergencies, serving as the first line of communication for callers needing law enforcement, fire, or medical response.

Notes that 911 dispatchers perform specialized duties including operating advanced automated terminals, obtaining critical information from callers, analyzing data, and utilizing mapping systems to dispatch appropriate emergency units and provide pre-arrival instructions.

Acknowledges that 911 dispatchers receive specialized training and must be certified, and often suffer from Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder due to exposure to traumatic calls and emergency situations.

Directs counties to update job classifications of 911 emergency services dispatchers to reflect their status as first responders and requires transmission of certified copies of the resolution to the Mayors and Council Chairs of all four counties.