Jul 11, 2018

Study on PTSD in First Responders

A bill, SB553, which authorizes a commission to study post-traumatic stress disorder in first responders, was signed into law by Governor Sununu on June 12, 2018. This bill establishes a commission to study the incidence of PTSD in first responders and whether such a disorder should be covered under workers’ compensation. The commission will be comprised of representatives of first responder organizations, representatives of the New Hampshire legislature and appointees from relevant agencies at state, county, and municipal levels. The commission has been directed to investigate the prevalence of PTSD among first responders, how employers handle PTSD, the relevant treatments in the workplace, the challenges proving PTSD caused by prior employment or event and the extent employment benefits provide insurance coverage for PTSD. Additionally, the commission will study  the cost of rebutting the presumption PTSD was caused during service would impose on public employers, private employers, and taxpayers, including funding to mitigate such cost. The bill became effective June 12, 2018, with the first commission meeting within 45 days. The commission is required to submit a report on its findings and any recommendations for proposed legislation by November 1, 2018.