Bill > HB3341

This bill expands the professionals who can diagnose post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) for workers' compensation purposes for first responders. Currently, only licensed psychiatrists could diagnose PTSD, but the bill now allows a broader range of licensed mental health providers to make the diagnosis, including psychologists, professional counselors, marriage and family therapists, psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners, and social workers. To qualify, these providers must hold a master's degree or higher, possess a terminal license in their profession, and be qualified to treat PTSD. The bill recognizes PTSD as a unique occupational hazard for first responders like law enforcement officers, firefighters, emergency medical technicians, paramedics, and emergency dispatchers. For a PTSD diagnosis to be compensable, the employer must elect to provide coverage, and the diagnosis must be related to work-related events. The bill includes provisions that the diagnosis cannot consider personnel actions taken in good faith, and claims must be made within three years of the diagnosis. The amendments to this law are set to expire on July 1, 2026, unless the Legislature extends them, and the bill includes reporting requirements for employers and the Insurance Commissioner regarding PTSD claims.

Health and Social Services

http://www.wvlegislature.gov/Bill_Status/Bills_history.cfm?input=3341&year=2025&sessiontype=RS&btype=bill