Bill > HB2797

This bill amends West Virginia workers' compensation law to expand who can diagnose post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) for first responders seeking occupational disease benefits. The bill adds certified nurse practitioners and certified psychiatric physician assistants to the list of professionals who can officially diagnose PTSD, alongside licensed psychiatrists. First responders, which include law enforcement officers, firefighters, emergency medical technicians, paramedics, and emergency dispatchers, can receive workers' compensation for PTSD if their employer has elected to provide such coverage. The diagnosis must be based on the American Psychiatric Association's diagnostic criteria and relate to a traumatic event experienced during the course of their employment. The bill removes a previous sunset clause, making these provisions permanent. Importantly, the bill acknowledges PTSD as a unique occupational hazard for first responders, recognizing the high-stress nature of their work and the potential mental health challenges they face. Claimants must file their claim within three years of receiving a PTSD diagnosis, and the diagnosis cannot consider personnel actions taken in good faith by the employer.

Health and Social Services

http://www.wvlegislature.gov/Bill_Status/Bills_history.cfm?input=2797&year=2025&sessiontype=RS&btype=bill