Bill > HB1313

This bill, effective January 1, 2027, expands workers' compensation coverage for law-enforcement officers and firefighters by establishing that a post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) diagnosis resulting from an incident or exposure in the line of duty, even without a physical injury, can be considered a "qualifying event" for compensation purposes. This means that traumatic experiences encountered by these first responders, such as witnessing severe violence or mass casualties, can be recognized as a cause for PTSD that is eligible for workers' compensation benefits, provided it meets specific criteria including being diagnosed by a mental health professional and being the primary cause of the disorder, and not stemming from disciplinary actions or other employment-related issues.