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HJR 35

General Assembly, Statement of Intent or Position - Recognizes emergency telecommunicators as first responders. -

114th Regular Session (2025-2026) Introduced by Fred Atchley

Tennessee legislature formally recognizes 911 dispatchers and emergency call takers as first responders, expanding their eligibility for benefits and workplace protections.

Signed by Governor.
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Bill Summary · HJR 35

Legislative bill overview

HJR 35 is a joint resolution that officially recognizes emergency telecommunicators (911 dispatchers and emergency call takers) as first responders in Tennessee. The bill has been signed into law by the Governor as of April 15, 2025, making this a formal statement of legislative intent and position rather than a binding statutory change.

Why is this important

This recognition carries symbolic and practical significance: it acknowledges the critical role telecommunicators play in emergency response systems, may support their eligibility for certain benefits or protections previously limited to traditional first responders, and could influence how they are treated under workers' compensation, mental health support programs, and public safety training standards. The designation may also boost recruitment and retention in a profession that experiences high turnover and burnout rates.

Potential points of contention

  • Cost implications: Expanding first responder benefits and protections to telecommunicators could increase state spending on workers' compensation, mental health services, and training programs without explicit appropriations
  • Definitional scope: The resolution doesn't specify which benefits or protections automatically apply to this new classification, creating potential ambiguity in implementation across agencies
  • Equity concerns: Traditional first responders may view this as diluting their status or competing for limited resources and recognition without substantive operational changes to telecommunicator roles

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

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