Eastern Shore Times

Delegate Mike Cherry has introduced legislation aimed at extending enhanced retirement benefits to emergency dispatchers in Virginia. The proposed bills, HB1564 and HB1563, seek to provide local and state 9-1-1 dispatchers with the same benefits currently available to police officers and firefighters for service starting July 1, 2026.

Cherry emphasized the importance of this initiative by stating, "As a police chaplain, I have firsthand knowledge of the incredible work that Virginia’s emergency dispatchers do 24/7. Offering enhanced retirement benefits to our state and local dispatchers both recognizes their service as the very first of first responders and will help local governments fill critical vacancies."

The effort comes after similar proposals faced challenges due to budgetary constraints in previous sessions. The cost of implementing these changes was estimated at approximately $275,500 for system upgrades and $577,000 for funding the benefits for state dispatchers during the 2024 regular session.

Despite past hurdles, Cherry is optimistic about securing support this time around. He pointed out that "with a state budget surplus of around $2 billion," there is potential not only to enhance dispatcher benefits but also to consider tax relief measures for families in Virginia. Cherry expressed hope that his colleagues would acknowledge the sacrifices made by emergency dispatchers by supporting these enhancements.