Connecticut House Bill HB06302

Connecticut 2021 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/29/21
• Refer: 1/29/21
• Refer: 3/16/21
• Report Pass: 3/24/21
• Refer: 4/5/21
• Report Pass: 4/12/21
• Engrossed: 5/12/21
• Report Pass: 5/14/21
• Passed: 6/7/21
• Chaptered: 6/23/21
• Enrolled: 6/24/21
• Passed: 6/30/21

Caption

An Act Studying The Consolidation Of Public Safety Answering Points.

Impact

The impact of HB 6302 on state law involves potential changes to how public safety answering points operate across municipalities. By exploring consolidation, the bill may lead to a more uniform response system potentially enhancing coordination between different emergency services. The required recommendations for establishing state goals on consolidation could reshape statutes concerning emergency response and dispatching, ultimately leading to more centralized management of emergency communications. This may also address staffing and resource allocation in a more streamlined manner.

Summary

House Bill 6302, also known as the Special Act No. 21-16, aims to study the consolidation of public safety answering points (PSAPs) in the state. The bill establishes a task force tasked with analyzing the current system of PSAPs and providing recommendations for their consolidation. The goal of the bill is to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of emergency response services while ensuring public safety is prioritized. The task force is required to examine a range of issues, including the challenges posed by existing collective bargaining agreements and the governance structure for regional PSAPs.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HB 6302 appears to be cautiously optimistic, reflecting a recognition of the potential benefits of consolidating public safety answering points. Supporters argue that such a move could lead to better-trained staff and more efficient service delivery. However, there is also concern regarding local control and the implications of consolidation on community-specific emergency response needs, leading to a mixed response from various stakeholders including labor organizations and municipal representatives.

Contention

Notable points of contention raised in discussions surrounding the bill include concerns about the potential loss of local representation in emergency dispatch, as individual municipalities may no longer have personnel stationed within their borders to respond to calls for service. Existing collective bargaining agreements present another challenge, as they may conflict with the consolidation efforts and create tensions between labor groups and municipal administrations. Thus, while there are many anticipated benefits of improved efficiency, careful consideration of local needs and existing agreements will be crucial moving forward.