Rep. Hall Co-Sponsors Legislation to Expand Mental Health Coverage for First Responders

HARTFORD – State Representative Carol Hall (R-59) co-sponsored legislation to help police and fire personnel to access mental health services. The bill, SB 164, “An Act Including Certain Mental or Emotional Impairments within the Definition of ‘Personal Injury’ Under the Workers’ Compensation Statutes” was taken up by the House of Representatives on Friday, May 31st.

“We have to do this for our first responders,” said Rep. Hall. “Every day our police and fire personnel work hard to keep us safe and often times they witness horrific incidents. This has been over 8 years in the making. I am glad this legislation is moving forward so we can get these men and women the help that they need. We owe our Police and Fire personnel the very best care and support we can provide.”

The legislation allows police officers, firefighters and parole officers to receive worker’s compensation benefits including mental health treatment for work related Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). Additionally, it requires resilience and self-care training for police officers, firefighters and parole officers.

The legislation was not extended to cover EMS personnel. However, the bill does require the Labor Committee to conduct a study on the feasibility of expanding coverage.

“I am disappointed that EMS personnel and other first responders were left out of this bill,” said Rep. Hall. “They see everything that that our police officers and firefighters see on daily basis. I hope that the Labor Committee will study the issue and bring legislation forward next year.”

The legislation was passed unanimously by the State Senate and House of Representatives. It awaits approval by the Governor.