H.R. 2937: Providing Resources and Occupational Training for Emotional Crisis and Trauma in 911 Act

This bill, titled the Providing Resources and Occupational Training for Emotional Crisis and Trauma in 911 Act or the PROTECT 911 Act, aims to enhance mental health support for public safety telecommunicators, such as 911 operators. The key components of the bill are outlined below:

Best Practices and Resources Development

The Secretary of Health and Human Services (HHS) is tasked with:

• Creating and publishing best practices for identifying, preventing, and treating mental health issues, particularly post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), among public safety telecommunicators.
• Regularly updating these best practices as necessary.
• Developing educational resources for mental health professionals to better understand the specific mental health challenges faced by public safety telecommunicators, including the stresses of the job and related health issues.

Consultation with Experts

In the development of the best practices and resources, the Secretary will consult with various experts, including:

• Public health experts
• Mental health professionals specializing in job-related stress
• Clinicians with experience in diagnosing and treating mental health issues
• National nonprofit organizations that represent public safety telecommunicators

Grants for Behavioral Health Programs

The bill proposes to amend the Public Health Service Act to include provisions for grants aimed at supporting behavioral health programs in emergency communications centers. This includes:

• Funding to State, local, and regional emergency communications centers to establish or enhance mental health and wellness programs.
• Using grant funds to:
  • Create evidence-based programs that support the mental well-being of public safety telecommunicators, focusing on awareness and prevention of mental health issues.
  • Set up peer-support programs where telecommunicators can support each other.
  • Acquire materials or instructors for training purposes.
  • Disseminate information necessary for implementing these programs.

Definitions

Key terms defined in the bill include:

• Emergency communications center: A facility that handles 911 calls, processes requests for assistance, dispatches responders, and manages communications during incidents.
• Public safety telecommunicator: An individual designated in a specific occupational classification performing duties within emergency communications centers.

Implementation

The overall goal of the legislation is to improve mental health support systems for those who work as public safety telecommunicators, thereby enhancing their well-being and effectiveness in their critical roles in emergency services.

Relevant Companies

• None found