Joan Hartley

Sen. Hartley Stands With Leaders as Governor Signs Bill Expanding PTSD Treatment for First Responders

WATERBURY – State Senator Joan Hartley (D-Waterbury) along with a number of state officials, political leaders and first responders joined Governor Ned Lamont this week for the ceremonial signing of landmark legislation, S.B. 164 An Act Concerning Workers’ Compensation Benefits for Certain Mental or Emotional Impairments, Mental Health Care for Police Officers and Wellness Training for Police Officers, Parole Officers and Firefighters. This bill expands treatment for post-traumatic stress disorder to first responders including police officers and firefighters.

“Our first responders protect us every day, putting their lives on the line to keep the public safe,” said Sen. Hartley. “Unfortunately, that means they often experience horrific tragedies that can leave a lasting impact on them. This new law represents a chance for our first responders to receive assistance, providing a new lifeline to them in their time of need.”

With the bill signed by Governor Lamont, first responders who experience traumatic incidents in the line of duty would be authorized to receive medical benefits if they are diagnosed with post-traumatic stress disorder. The new law also expands the evaluation period for an employer to accept or deny such a claim from 30 days to 180 days.

The new standards are expected to provide coverage to roughly 36,000 statewide first responders which includes firefighters, police officers, state police officers and parole officers.