PTSD first responder bill sent to Connecticut governor

A bill that would make certain mental or emotional impairments suffered by first responders compensable in Connecticut is awaiting Gov. Ned Lamont’s signature.

S.B. 164 passed unanimously in a 141-0 vote in the Connecticut House of Representatives in May 31. The bill also passed unanimously in the Senate on Thursday.

The legislation would amend the state’s current workers compensation statutes to expand coverage of post-traumatic stress disorder diagnoses by any police officer or firefighter who has visually witnessed the death or maiming of one or more human beings that was not the result of some natural cause, or the “immediate aftermath” of a death or maiming while in the line of duty. The bill defines “maiming” as the loss of any member or organ, and “immediate aftermath” as within six hours that the scene was secured by law enforcement officers. The bill would also cover PTSD claims filed by volunteer firefighters.

If signed by the governor, the legislation will take effect immediately.

The governor’s office did not immediately respond to a request for comment.