911

Unarmed civilian response teams are being deployed to handle certain 911 calls in nearly 100 US cities, replacing police officers for situations like mental health crises and welfare checks. NPR reports that these alternative responder programs are reshaping how public safety is delivered, with cities increasingly sending medics, counselors, or outreach workers instead of armed officers.

Rock Island, Illinois is considering hiring temporary travel dispatchers to fill gaps in its 911 emergency communications center, which is short-staffed. The move would bring in contracted or traveling dispatchers on an interim basis to keep emergency call coverage at required levels while the city works to recruit permanent staff.