General Summary of the Bill

This resolution, S. RES. 164, brought before the 119th Congress during its 1st Session, aims to uphold the principles and aims of National Public Safety Telecommunicators Week. Sponsored by Senator Klobuchar and co-sponsored by Senator Budd, it was submitted on April 9, 2025, and referred to the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation. The resolution acknowledges and celebrates the essential work and contributions of public safety telecommunications professionals. It seeks to honor their expertise and encourage public recognition of the integral role these individuals play in emergency response situations.

Summary of Significant Issues

The resolution does not present specific legislative changes or appropriations; instead, it emphasizes recognition and support for public safety telecommunicators. It underscores several critical roles these professionals play, such as handling reports of missing children, negotiating in potentially volatile situations like hostage crises, and offering first aid guidance during emergencies. The text highlights their significant emotional and physical challenges due to long working hours and the stressful nature of their job. Importantly, this resolution calls upon government bodies at every level to acknowledge and appreciate the life-saving duties carried out by these professionals.

Impact on the Public

Broadly speaking, this resolution seeks to heighten awareness of the essential services provided by public safety telecommunications professionals. By encouraging recognition and appreciation from the public, the resolution has the potential to increase community support for these professionals. As citizens become more aware of the high-stakes nature of the work involved in answering emergency calls, they may show greater trust and cooperation with these professionals during stressful situations. This increased awareness could also foster public advocacy for better working conditions and resources for telecommunicators.

Impact on Specific Stakeholders

For public safety telecommunicators themselves, this resolution offers a formal acknowledgment of their invaluable contributions. Recognition from the U.S. Senate could boost morale and provide a sense of validation for the extensive work they perform under pressure. It might also stimulate efforts to improve their professional environment, potentially addressing issues like burnout and workforce turnover due to job stress.

From an institutional perspective, local and national government bodies may interpret this resolution as encouragement to review and potentially enhance support systems for telecommunicators. In practice, this could mean increased funding for training programs, improved technologies for call centers, and measures to address the mental health needs of these professionals.

Overall, S. RES. 164 calls for both reflection and action in appreciating and supporting those who are often the unseen heroes behind crisis management and emergency response across the nation.