HB 2460 Summary

• Establishes a presumption that posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a compensable occupational disease for first responders (peace officers, firefighters, rescue/ambulance workers) who receive licensed counseling and are diagnosed with PTSD resulting from job duties.

• Expands section 38-672 counseling program to provide up to 12 visits of licensed counseling for public safety employees exposed to traumatic events, with up to 36 additional visits if a mental health professional determines they are needed.

• Prohibits employers from requiring independent medical examinations or mandatory use of accrued leave for employees receiving trauma counseling, and requires employers to continue pay and benefits if an employee is deemed unfit to return to work during treatment.

• Allows employees receiving active treatment under section 38-672 to file workers' compensation claims for PTSD within one year after their last licensed counseling visit rather than one year from injury date.

• Repeals section 38-673 and certain prior laws related to first responder counseling programs, and requires annual reporting by state and political subdivisions on program participation and outcomes.