Alabama considers first responder PTSD bill

Alabama lawmakers are considering a bill that would make mental illness an occupational disease for first responders.

H.B. 323, introduced Thursday and sent to committee, would amend current workers compensation law that states a mental illness, including post-traumatic stress disorder, is not considered an occupational disease unless accompanies by a physical injury.  

This bill would require that certain benefits be provided to first responders who suffer from work-related PTSD, including reimbursement for certain out-of-pocket treatment expenses and paid time off for treatment.

This bill would authorize a fund to disburse the benefits and would exempt paid benefits from state income tax.