As the future of 911 is on the line, AFSCME members were in Washington, D.C., this week to answer the call.
They walked the halls of Congress and told their representatives face to face: pass a law to reclassify 911 dispatchers.
Despite the essential work they do, public safety dispatchers are still classified as “clerical” workers under federal rules. For the professionals who work in 911, this label isn’t just outdated — it’s disrespectful.
Steve Verry, who is a member of AFSCME Council 63 in New Jersey, said federal reclassification is long overdue.
“Some states already reclassified 911,” Verry said. “It’s time for the federal government to catch up. Public safety is always changing.”
Verry and his fellow AFSCME members lobbied on Capitol Hill alongside hundreds of 911 dispatchers who are part of the National Emergency Number Association (NENA).
They pressed lawmakers to pass the Enhancing First Response Act (S. 725) and the 911 SAVES Act (H.R. 637) to reclassify dispatchers as a protective service occupation under the federal government’s Standard Occupational Classification system. This legislation has widespread bipartisan support and will not cost additional government funding.
“911 dispatchers are the calm voice in the storm.,” said Maria Elena Hoyos, a member of AFSCME Local 3090.
The Enhancing First Response Act unanimously passed the U.S. Senate last year, while the bipartisan 911 SAVES Act is being sponsored by California Congresswoman Norma Torres, a former 911 dispatcher and AFSCME member. Torres has consistently championed reclassification for dispatchers over the last several years.
In states across the country, public safety professionals came together through AFSCME to win the respect and support dispatchers need. They recently achieved enhanced mental health benefits for dispatchers in Arizona and New York.
Federal reclassification could open the possibility for more mental health support and specialized training as 911 technology rapidly changes.
Public safety professionals are turning to AFSCME to build power at work and advocate for safety on the job, better wages, good health care and a secure retirement. AFSCME members in corrections, law enforcement and emergency response defend our freedoms and our communities.
Sign the petition today to support reclassifying 911.