POLICY, RECOGNITION, AND PERFORMATIVE BENEFITS: DEMYSTIFYING THE PUBLIC SAFETY TELECOMMUNICATOR CLASSIFICATION
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Authors
Gallagher, Shanalee
Subjects
reclassification
emergency communication centers
ECC
public safety telecommunicators
dispatchers
public safety retirement
political will
benefits
Office of Management and Budget
standard occupational classification
SOC
first responders
emergency communication centers
ECC
public safety telecommunicators
dispatchers
public safety retirement
political will
benefits
Office of Management and Budget
standard occupational classification
SOC
first responders
Advisors
Wollman, Lauren
Halladay, Carolyn C.
Date of Issue
2024-09
Date
Publisher
Monterey, CA; Naval Postgraduate School
Language
Abstract
This research examines the reclassification debate of Public Safety Telecommunicators (PSTs) from the Office and Administrative Support category to the Protective Service Workers category in the Standard Occupational Classification (SOC) system. The reclassification aims to address systemic issues faced by PSTs, such as high attrition rates, lack of recognition, and limited benefits. Proponents argue that reclassification would improve recruitment, retention, morale, and access to mental health resources and retirement benefits. Conversely, critics argue that reclassification alone may not lead to tangible improvements.Through state-level data analysis, this study finds a weak correlation between reclassification and enhanced benefits. Only a slight increase in benefits was observed in states that reclassified PSTs (15.8%) compared to those that did not (12.5%). Some states, like Idaho, Washington, and Arizona, successfully enhanced benefits through strategic legislative efforts rather than relying solely on reclassification. The findings suggest that a multifaceted approach, including legislative advocacy and policy reforms, is crucial to effectively address the challenges facing PSTs. Symbolic recognition through reclassification must be complemented by tangible policy changes to enhance the resilience of emergency communication systems.
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Distribution Statement A. Approved for public release: Distribution is unlimited.
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