My wife is a 911 Supervisor at a combined communication center in Florida, where she and her fellow call takers handle 911 calls, dispatch Fire Rescue, City Police, County Deputies, and provide medical assistance over the phone until EMS or law enforcement can arrive. Despite their critical role in emergency response, they are not considered First Responders but instead called glorified secretaries. This needs to change.

911 dispatchers are the first point of contact during emergencies and play an essential role in saving lives. They provide vital instructions that can mean the difference between life and death before other responders arrive on scene. Recognizing them as First Responders would ensure they receive the respect, training, and benefits they deserve for their indispensable service.

Please sign this petition to urge the State of Florida to reclassify 911 dispatchers as First Responders!