SC H3261

Allows law enforcement officers and firefighters (including volunteers) to file workers' compensation claims for post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) without an accompanying physical injury

Defines 11 qualifying "significant traumatic experiences" including witnessing deaths of minors, homicides, mass killings, suicides involving grievous bodily harm, or using/being subjected to deadly force on duty

Requires the PTSD to be medically diagnosed according to the DSM and the first responder must participate in clinical care through SC Law Enforcement Assistance Program (SCLEAP) or SC First Responders Assistance and Support Team (SC FAST) before accessing other medical benefits

Provides weekly compensation of 66⅔% of average weekly wages for total disability, capped at the state's average weekly wage, for a maximum of 500 weeks

Excludes stress injuries resulting from normal employer-employee relations such as disciplinary actions, work evaluations, promotions, demotions, or terminations

Takes effect January 1, 2026, applying to injuries occurring on or after that date