IN THE COUNTY LEGISLATURE OF JACKSON COUNTY, MISSOURI
Title
A RESOLUTION recognizing Missouri’s 911 Dispatchers as first responders.
Intro
RESOLUTION NO. 21386, August 28, 2023
INTRODUCED BY Sean E. Smith, County Legislator
Body
WHEREAS, Missouri Governor Mike Parson recently signed Senate Bill 24 into law, reclassifying public safety communications personnel, including 911 dispatchers, as first responders, a move that will allow dispatchers access to state-funded mental health resources; and,
WHEREAS, this reclassification acknowledges the crucial role that 911 dispatchers play in emergency response and recognizes their efforts as being equal to those of law enforcement and fire response personnel; and,
WHEREAS, the public safety of our citizens is of paramount importance, and the effective response to emergencies and crises is essential for the well-being of our community; and,
WHEREAS, 911 dispatchers play a vital role in ensuring the safety and security of our citizens by being the first point of contact in times of distress and emergencies; and,
WHEREAS, the calm, composed, and dedicated voices of our 911 telecommunicators provide comfort, guidance, and assistance to individuals in need, often during their most challenging moments; and,
WHEREAS, this historic legislation grants 911 dispatchers key status, elevating their role from a traditionally perceived clerical position to the esteemed status of first responders; and,
WHEREAS, this transformative legislation will go into effect on August 28, signifying a step forward in recognizing and honoring the dedicated service of our 911 dispatchers; now therefore,
BE IT RESOLVED by the County Legislature of Jackson County, Missouri that the Legislature hereby recognizes and commends the invaluable contributions of our 911 dispatchers as first responders, and we express our gratitude for their unwavering dedication to the safety and well-being of our community.
Enacted and Approved
Effective Date: This Resolution shall be effective immediately upon its passage by a majority of the Legislature.
APPROVED AS TO FORM:
____________________________
County Counselor
Certificate of Passage
I hereby certify that the attached resolution, Resolution No. 21386 of August 28, 2023, was duly passed on August 28, 2023 by the Jackson County Legislature. The votes thereon were as follows:
Yeas ______7_________ Nays ______1________
Abstaining ____0_____ Absent _____1_______
________________________ ____________________________
Date Mary Jo Spino, Clerk of Legislature