HB1302 Summary

• Public employers must provide coverage for up to 12 licensed counseling visits per calendar year for public safety employees (firefighters, police officers, probation/detention officers) who experience traumatic events in the line of duty, with employers paying all costs.

• Licensed counseling is defined as treatment by qualified mental health professionals (psychiatrists, psychologists, nurses, physician assistants) who specialize in trauma and crisis using evidence-based treatment, and may be provided through telehealth.

• Public employers must compile and report data on counseling participation, including number of employees served, average visits per employee, work missed, and workers' compensation claims filed, while protecting health information under federal privacy law.

• Public safety employees may select their own licensed mental health professional, and employers pay amounts not exceeding the employee's health plan deductibles and conditions.

• The State Fire Prevention Commission must study the viability of providing licensed counseling and peer support access for volunteer firefighters and report findings to the Legislative Council by July 1, 2024.

• Section 1 becomes effective January 1, 2024, and the entire act expires January 1, 2025, unless extended by the General Assembly.