Bill > HB74

This bill establishes the Firefighter and Emergency Service Provider Peer Support Act, which creates a framework for state, local, and regional public fire agencies to develop peer support programs for emergency service providers (employees and volunteers who provide emergency response services). The bill defines key terms such as "critical incident stress" and establishes comprehensive guidelines for these programs. Specifically, the bill requires peer support team members to complete specialized training covering topics like substance abuse, grief support, line of duty deaths, and workplace issues. The legislation ensures confidentiality of communications between emergency service providers and peer support team members, with limited exceptions for situations involving potential harm or criminal activity. The bill also provides liability protection for peer support team members and their agencies, meaning they cannot be held liable for damages related to peer support services unless they fail to exercise ordinary care. The primary goal of this legislation is to support the mental health and well-being of emergency service providers by creating a structured, confidential peer support system that helps them address the psychological challenges inherent in their high-stress profession.

Health and Social Services, Justice

https://www.nmlegis.gov/Legislation/Legislation?chamber=H&legtype=B&legno=74&year=25