Texas Senate Bill SB375

Texas 2021 - 87th Regular

Caption

Relating to required cardiopulmonary resuscitation training for certain telecommunicators.

Impact

The implementation of SB375 is expected to standardize CPR training across various state, county, and local agencies employing telecommunicators. The Texas Commission on Law Enforcement will be responsible for establishing the necessary rules to ensure compliance with this legislation. By aligning training protocols with the latest emergency cardiovascular care guidelines, the bill facilitates improved quality of service, ultimately aiming to increase survival rates in cardiac arrest incidents where dispatchers are first responders.

Summary

Senate Bill 375 mandates cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) training for telecommunicators involved in dispatching emergency medical services. By amending Section 1701.352 of the Occupations Code, the bill requires that these telecommunicators complete initial CPR training within 60 days of employment and engage in continuing education as standards evolve. This proactive initiative aims to enhance the emergency response capabilities of dispatchers, ensuring they are equipped to provide accurate and timely instructions during medical emergencies.

Contention

While the bill has commendable intentions to improve emergency response, discussions around SB375 could vary based on resource allocation and training logistics. Some stakeholders may express concerns about the sufficiency of funding and resources for continuous training programs. Additionally, the bill may face scrutiny regarding the balance between state mandates and local agency autonomy, particularly in areas where existing training standards may differ from those mandated by the state.