BISMARCK, N.D. – Governor Kelly Armstrong signed into law two bills that acknowledge dispatchers as first responders, celebrating the vital function of public safety during national Public Safety Telecommunicator’s Week last week.
With the passing of SB 2296 recognizing Public Safety Telecommunicators (dispatchers) as first responders, North Dakota joins 19 other states with the reclassification (NENA map). The classification opens access for vital mental health and disability benefits.
HB 1419 furthers this by adding dispatchers to the Public Safety retirement plan.
“These unseen heroes are the calm voices in the chaos—providing critical support to those in crisis, guiding emergency responders with precision, and serving as the vital link between the public and the help they need,” says Darin Anderson, Division Director of State Radio within the Department of Emergency Services. “Their tireless commitment, quick thinking, and unwavering composure make them the backbone of emergency services.”
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For More Information, Contact :
Alison Vetter, Strategic Communications Chief
North Dakota Department of Emergency Services 701-328-8154
alvetter@nd.gov