First responders are those who are usually the first to arrive at an emergency or accident scene and include police, medical and fire department personnel. The offices which coordinate emergency management services, local health departments and public hospitals are also crucial elements of emergency preparation and response. The first responders in many of our rural areas are volunteers. Their departments usually receive some federal assistance for training and equipment but most funding is provided locally. First responders often transport accident victims to hospitals that are also locally owned and operated. Health advocates claim most rural communities barely have enough resources to provide adequate healthcare for the populations they serve.

Obviously the first step in emergency response is the phone call that puts this system in motion. However, our 911 network is considered substandard with frequent outages due to widespread problems which include, aging and outdated equipment, cyber threats, and understaffing. Much of the 911 infrastructure is built on antiquated systems that are struggling to keep up with the demands of a modern, data-driven world. These issues can lead to service delays and put lives at risk across the country. About 88% of our 911 centers reported at least one outage in the past year, a significant increase from the previous year. Advocates say the 911 system must improve communications, strengthen system resilience, and provide appropriate recognition for 911 dispatchers in order to ultimately help save lives.

Pending Legislation: House version of S.725 - Enhancing First Response Act (passed Senate 9/10/2025)
Sponsor: Sen. Amy Klobuchar (MN)
Status: Received in the House, held at the desk – awaiting committee assignment
Chair: Speaker Mike Johnson (LA)