INDIANAPOLIS – Indiana lawmakers have reclassified 9-1-1 dispatchers as first responders.

House Enrolled Act 1198 was sponsored in the Senate by State Senator Sue Glick of Lagrange.

Glick says it ensures that 9-1-1 dispatchers receive the recognition they deserve.

The act also grants certified EMTs and licensed paramedics the authority to make on-the-scene decisions whether to transport a patient who is incoherent or lacks the capacity because of their medical condition to express their consent.

The bill passed the Senate unanimously and is headed to Governor Holcomb’s desk.