Donna Barrows

117 N. 9th St.

Blackwell, OK 74631

Governor Kevin Stitt

2300 N. Lincoln Blvd., Suite 212.
Oklahoma City, OK 73105

September 21,2023

Governor Stitt,

Good afternoon! My name is Donna Barrows. I am a 911 Telecommunications dispatcher

in Blackwell, Oklahoma. Since I started this career, I have learned very quickly, that it is more
important than the credit it is given. I have become very passionate about the job, and the impact
it has on our community. For the last 5 years I have experienced some very mentally trying
situations, and have aided in saving many lives. My goal is to ensure Oklahoman Dispatchers get
reclassified as First Responders, with the same benefits.

As of current, Dispatchers are classified as Office and Administrative Support. Many

other states in our country are changing that in their legislation. Why hasn’t Oklahoma
reclassified Telecommunication dispatchers to fit the First Responder category? “Reclassification
can happen a number of ways: through the Bureau of Labor Statistics; through legislation at the
state level; and through legislation at the federal level.” (911.gov 2023) The reason this
classification is so important to the dispatch profession is the help, benefits, and financial
structure that is guaranteed to our Police, Fire, and EMS partners.

With the classification alone dispatchers would be entitled to better pay, and mental
health coverage. Over 17 states have reclassified their dispatch teams as First Responders.
Dispatchers face a national shortage in staff constantly due to the nature, and high stress levels of
the job. It is a highly stressful job, and is commonly shift work. “Their work requires not just
tolerance for stress, but also specialized training, expertise, and skills. But in most states and
localities, and even in the federal government, work inside the PSAP is considered clerical, or
secretarial.” (NENA 2023) That does not compare to the normal duties, or 9-5 of a secretary.
 Oklahoman dispatchers depend on our state and its representatives to stand for this
change. “Reclassifying 911 dispatchers as first responders must be done through the legislature
and is currently introduced to congress through the 911 saves act.” (Firefighter now.com 2020) I
feel it is very important that Oklahoma provide this for members of our community, that sacrifice
their mental health, and their time with family, in service of our communities.

Upon answering the call of many horrific events, I am always placed on the scene before
any of my partners. We collect critical data to assess the scene. We give crucial instruction, as to
prevent any further loss. Most importantly, while being the calm in the chaos, we multitask all of
these actions while we tone out help methodically, without a tremble in our voice. Dispatch may
not directly see the scene; however, we never forget the sound! The howl of a mother in pain,
while she holds her barely breathing baby, or the screams for help as a home full of children
catch on fire, these are sounds one does not simply just forget. “While their lives might not
specifically be in danger … they have a great deal of exposure to trauma,” he said. “Most of it
might be vicarious, but some is really direct when you hear what’s going on and can’t do
anything to stop it.” ( Fay 2019) The mental trauma these calls can cause a person can be very
intense, even leading to Post Traumatic Stress Disorder.

On Tuesday, May 3rd ,2023, you signed into law HB3278. This bill ensuring that all 911
dispatchers must be trained to give CPR instruction over the phone. This bill specifically places
our abilities on the scene before any other responder even knows of a call. This bill also ensures
the dispatcher’s liability to another individuals life. I agree with this bill completely, because this
is what 911 is for. The dispatcher is the most critical part of the lifeline chain in these events, and
your legislation shows the importance of our career.

I appreciate all of the hard work you put into this state, and especially with Emergency
Services in mind. I ask you again to please consider passing legislation to reclassify Oklahoma’s
dispatchers as First Responders. Thank You for taking your time to read my concerns. If you
would like to discuss this further, or would like anymore information, please feel free to contact
me. You can reach me by phone at (580)363-5490. Mailing for our local Police Department is:
224 W. Blackwell, Blackwell, Ok 74631.

Sincerely,

Donna Barrows
Sources:

 Are 911 Dispatchers First Responders? (The truth) – Firefighter NOW .

Firefighternow.com (2020).

 Angela Childers & Dr. Joel Fay. (February 27,2019.) Few States Include 911 Operators
in First Responder Presumption Cover. BusinessInsurance.com/Firstresponder

 Telecommunicator Job Reclassification | 911.gov (2023)

 Telecommunicator Reclassification - National Emergency Number Association (nena.org)