Description
Title: To amend City Code 2-728, concerning the Department of Emergency Communications, Preparedness, and Response, to require the routing of E-911 calls for emergency medical services to the Richmond Ambulance Authority by the Department of Emergency Communications, Preparedness, and Response.
Summary
On March 10, 2026, an ordinance was introduced to amend the City Code of Richmond, specifically Section 2-728, which regulates the Department of Emergency Communications, Preparedness, and Response (DECPR). The amendment mandates that E-911 calls for emergency medical services be routed directly to the Richmond Ambulance Authority (RAA) upon identification as medical requests. This change aims to enhance the accuracy and efficiency of emergency medical response, addressing concerns raised by the Public Safety Committee regarding DECPR’s previous handling of medical calls. Data indicated that RAA historically exceeded performance standards for emergency dispatch, suggesting better patient outcomes. The ordinance is set for public hearing on April 13, 2026, and will take effect 30