Bill > HB1842

This bill amends Oklahoma's workers' compensation law to provide additional provisions for first responders suffering from mental health-related injuries, specifically post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). The bill requires employers to collect the first responder's service weapon during their treatment period and mandates suspending their Council on Law Enforcement Education and Training (CLEET) certification until they are able to perform their job duties. The legislation maintains existing provisions that allow first responders to receive workers' compensation for mental health injuries without requiring a physical injury, with disability benefits limited to 26 weeks and potentially extended to 52 weeks with sufficient evidence. First responders who cannot perform their essential job functions after reaching maximum medical improvement may be awarded up to $50,000 in permanent disability benefits. The bill also specifies that employers must continue health insurance coverage during the treatment period and provide medical treatment for up to one year, with prescription medicine costs capped at $10,000. The bill defines post-traumatic stress disorder in detail and applies to law enforcement officers, firefighters (paid and volunteer), and emergency medical technicians. The legislation will become effective on November 1, 2025.

http://www.oklegislature.gov/BillInfo.aspx?Bill=hb1842&Session=2600