ATLANTA – The Georgia House of Representatives has passed a measure to provide supplemental insurance for first responders diagnosed with occupational Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD).
House Bill 451 would require a public entity to provide supplemental, illness-specific insurance to certain first responders diagnosed with occupational PTSD. Coverage would be available once per one’s lifetime and would include a $3,000 cash benefit and an income replacement disability benefit provided 90 days after a PTSD diagnosis.
“This legislation sends a powerful message that we value the wellbeing of our first responders and are committed to ensuring they can continue serving our communities without compromising their own mental health or taking on increased financial burdens to seek treatment,” Rep. Devan Seabaugh, R-Marietta, said in a statement. “This crucial legislation will also help break down the stigma surrounding mental health issues and encourage a culture where seeking help is seen as a sign of strength, not weakness. I was proud to sponsor this legislation, which I have worked on for several years, to provide hope and support to these valuable public servants.”
The bill passed unanimously in the House and heads to the Senate for consideration.