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HB 1697

9-1-1 TELECOMMUNICATOR CPR

104th Regular Session Introduced by Dee Avelar and 108 co-sponsors

Illinois mandates 9-1-1 dispatchers receive CPR training and guide callers through chest compressions during cardiac emergencies, aiming to improve pre-arrival survival rates.

Public Act . . . . . . . . . 104-0027
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Bill Summary · HB 1697

Legislative bill overview

HB 1697 requires 9-1-1 telecommunicators (emergency dispatchers) in Illinois to receive training in cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) and dispatcher-assisted CPR protocols. The bill establishes certification requirements and mandates that dispatch centers implement procedures to guide callers through CPR instructions during cardiac emergencies.

Why is this important

Dispatcher-assisted CPR can significantly improve survival rates for cardiac arrest victims before paramedics arrive, potentially saving lives in the critical first minutes of an emergency. Since 9-1-1 telecommunicators are often the first trained responder a cardiac patient's family contacts, equipping them with CPR knowledge and protocols creates an additional layer of emergency response capability throughout the state.

Potential points of contention

  • Implementation costs: Dispatch centers must absorb training, certification, and protocol development expenses, which could strain budgets in smaller municipalities
  • Liability concerns: Questions exist about legal responsibility if dispatcher-assisted CPR guidance is misapplied or results in patient harm
  • Staffing challenges: Adding certification requirements may affect hiring and retention of telecommunicators, particularly in rural or under-resourced areas
  • Caller compliance variability: Protocol effectiveness depends on caller panic levels and ability to follow complex instructions during emergencies

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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