Bill > HB154

This bill, known as the Helping Heroes Act, provides support for law enforcement officers, firefighters, and public emergency medical services (EMS) personnel who are diagnosed with Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) during their official duties. The bill specifically applies to first responders with at least ten years of service and offers an alternative to workers' compensation benefits. Eligible personnel who receive a PTSD diagnosis from a licensed mental health professional can receive reimbursement for mental health services and up to 30 days of paid time off, with a maximum annual benefit of $7,500 per person. The bill creates a special "Helping Heroes Act Fund" in the state treasury, which will be funded by $200,000 annually from insurance premium tax revenue starting in fiscal year 2026. The Commissioner of Insurance is required to submit an annual report detailing how the funds were used, how many first responders were helped, and whether additional funding is needed. Importantly, the bill stipulates that a PTSD diagnosis arising solely from legitimate personnel actions like transfers or promotions is not compensable, and the bill does not modify existing Public Employment Retirement System (PERS) benefit qualifications. The act is set to take effect on July 1, 2025.

Health and Social Services

https://billstatus.ls.state.ms.us/2025/pdf/history/HB/HB0154.xml