New York Assembly Bill A05371

New York 2025-2026 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/13/25
• Refer: 2/13/25
• Refer: 1/7/26
• Report Pass: 3/10/26
• Refer: 3/10/26
• Report Pass: 5/5/26
• Engrossed: 5/11/26
• Refer: 5/11/26

Caption

Requires 911 call-takers and dispatchers to complete telecommunicator CPR training which shall include recognizing signs of cardiac arrest during emergency calls, providing instructions for initiating CPR instructions to callers, coordinating with emergency medical services dispatch, and using automated external defibrillators when available and appropriate.

Impact

The introduction of A05371 is expected to significantly impact the administrative code of the City of New York and county law. By establishing a standardized training requirement for 911 call-takers and dispatchers, the bill aims to improve the quality of emergency responses across the state. This initiative is particularly crucial, as effective and immediate CPR can greatly increase the chances of survival for individuals experiencing cardiac arrests. All currently employed dispatchers will have to complete the T-CPR training within a year of the bill's enactment, ensuring that the existing workforce is also equipped with essential lifesaving skills.

Summary

Bill A05371, introduced in the New York State Assembly, mandates that all 911 call-takers and dispatchers complete training in telecommunicator cardiopulmonary resuscitation (T-CPR). This training aims to equip these essential personnel with the skills necessary to provide effective CPR instructions to callers experiencing a cardiac arrest. The bill ensures that the training follows nationally recognized, evidence-based guidelines, covering important topics such as recognizing signs of cardiac arrest, providing step-by-step CPR instructions, and coordinating with emergency medical services to guarantee timely assistance. Additionally, it requires utilizing automated external defibrillators (AEDs) when available and appropriate.

Contention

While the bill's focus on enhancing public safety through improved training for 911 personnel has broad support, discussions may arise regarding the practical implications of the training requirements. Questions may be raised about the operational impact on dispatch centers, the cost of implementing training programs, and the logistics of ensuring all dispatchers receive timely training. Despite these concerns, proponents argue that equipping dispatchers with T-CPR skills is vital for enhancing emergency response efforts and ultimately saving lives.