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Introduction of New Legislative Measures
A new bill introduced in the Oklahoma House of Representatives seeks to expand procedural and medical protections for first responders diagnosed with work-related post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). This initiative also mandates the temporary suspension of law enforcement credentials and service weapons during the treatment period.
Key Provisions of House Bill 1842
House Bill 1842, championed by Rep. Mark Lepak, aims to amend Section 13 of the Workers’ Compensation Code (85A O.S. §13). The bill is designed to enhance coverage for mental health injuries, specifically PTSD, affecting law enforcement officers, both paid and volunteer firefighters, as well as emergency medical technicians.
While PTSD is already recognized under Oklahoma law as a valid injury for first responders, this bill introduces additional layers of administrative procedure and safety oversight.
New Safety and Procedural Measures
The bill’s most notable provision is that it requires an employer to take specific actions when a first responder is temporarily unable to carry out their duties due to PTSD:
- Implement specific procedural steps
- Ensure the safety of the first responder and the public
These measures extend beyond traditional workers’ compensation benefits, indicating a legislative shift towards linking occupational mental health injuries with broader public safety concerns, particularly for armed personnel.
Implications for Insurers and Municipalities
For insurers and municipal risk pools, the bill reaffirms and slightly modifies benefits already available under the current framework:
- Restructures existing benefits
- Emphasizes comprehensive mental health coverage
National Context and Future Outlook
This legislation is part of a national trend recognizing PTSD as a compensable injury for first responders. This shift reflects growing awareness of the psychological burdens borne by frontline workers, especially those in law enforcement and emergency services.
The bill also formalizes a post-incident process that integrates workers’ compensation administration with law enforcement credentialing, ensuring a comprehensive approach to handling occupational mental health issues.
