Connecticut House Bill HB05943

Connecticut 2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/18/23
• Refer: 1/18/23

Caption

An Act Establishing A Working Group To Address First Responder Recruitment And Retention And Designating 9-1-1 Dispatchers As First Responders.

Impact

The proposed working group would also focus on enhancing community relations by developing methods to improve the public perception of first responders. This aligns with broader public safety objectives and seeks to foster a cooperative environment between law enforcement and the communities they serve. Additionally, the bill mandates a careful evaluation of the impacts of staffing shortages on operational efficiency, particularly concerning overtime costs and crime prevention efforts. The initiation of this working group is expected to bring much-needed attention to these pressing issues within the state's public safety framework.

Summary

House Bill 5943 proposes the establishment of a working group dedicated to addressing crucial issues related to the recruitment and retention of first responders, which includes firefighters and police officers. The bill recognizes the challenges faced by municipal fire departments and police departments in attracting and retaining qualified personnel. A significant aspect of the bill is the consideration of retirement plans, suggesting a study on the effects of defined contribution plans compared to traditional defined benefit plans. This aims to assess which retirement structure may better support first responder recruitment efforts.

Contention

Another key component of HB 5943 is the designation of 9-1-1 dispatchers as first responders, which elevates their status within the emergency response hierarchy. This classification reflects a growing recognition of the vital role dispatchers play in emergency services, as they are often the first point of contact in crises. This change could have implications for resource allocation and support systems designed for first responders, leading to discussions around the adequacy of existing training and mental health resources for all personnel involved in crisis situations.