Connecticut Senate Bill SB00616

Connecticut 2011 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/21/11
• Refer: 1/21/11

Caption

An Act Exempting Certified Police Officers From Emergency Medical Dispatch Training.

Impact

If enacted, this legislation would amend the current statutes outlined in section 28-30 of the general statutes, thereby altering the qualifications needed for police officers in communication roles during emergency situations. By relieving certified police officers from the emergency medical dispatch training requirement, the bill aims to streamline the process for law enforcement agencies, allowing them to utilize personnel without incurring the additional costs and time associated with further training.

Summary

Bill SB00616 proposes an exemption for certified police officers from the requirement of completing emergency medical dispatch training in order to serve as telecommunicators. This bill is introduced with the intention of facilitating the operational capabilities of police officers who are already certified by the Police Officer Standards and Training Council. Supporters argue that as trained first responders, these officers possess the necessary skills to handle emergency situations without undergoing additional training specifically for dispatch roles.

Contention

Notably, there may be concerns regarding the implications of this exemption on the quality of emergency medical dispatch services. Critics might argue that while police officers are trained in various response protocols, the specialized knowledge and skills gained through dedicated emergency medical dispatch training are crucial for handling diverse emergency calls effectively. This debate underscores the balance between operational efficiency in law enforcement and the provision of high-quality emergency medical services.