Lawmakers to consider state-funded mental health program for first responders

Indiana lawmakers are considering a bill that would create a state-funded program to provide unspecified income and mental health services to first responders who have been involved in “a qualified critical incident.”

H.B. 1136, introduced Tuesday, would establish the Indiana “first responders mental health wellness fund and program” and would cover those who are diagnosed with post-traumatic stress disorder following any qualifying incidents they may have encountered, which are listed in the bill and include death, serious injuries and events involving children.

The state’s Division of Mental Health and Addiction would operate the program, receiving an annual allocation from the state Assembly, according to the bill.

The bill was referred to Committee on Veterans Affairs and Public Safety.