Every day, 911 operators —also known as 911 telecommunicators — handle over 650,000 emergency calls, helping individuals get through the trauma of car crashes, suicides, murders, and more.[1]  Although this is a mentally taxing job, 911 telecommunicators are not afforded the same mental health support as other emergency responders and law enforcement, leaving them to deal with their stress alone.  While current state law has some informal resources available for emergency responders who may be facing a mental health crisis, there is little support when professional mental health services are needed.
 
To rectify this, our bill would provide access to mental health services to the 911 telecommunicators employed in Pennsylvania who need them. Similar to the mental health services we provide to our law enforcement officers, 911 telecommunicators would be able to access mental health services from a licensed health care provider and be given the support they need if they are experiencing post-traumatic stress injury. Protections will be put in place to ensure worker confidentially where appropriate.
 
As elected officials, we must recognize the trauma our 911 telecommunicators go through to keep us safe.  We cannot continue to leave these brave men and women to deal with their stress and trauma alone.  Please join us in co-sponsoring this legislation to support our 911 telecommunicators, just as they support our loved ones in crisis. 

Statutes/Laws affected:
Printer's No. 3455: 35-75, 35-10