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TX HB1667

Bill

Status

Introduced

12/18/2024

Primary Sponsor

Terry Canales

Click for details

Origin

House of Representatives

89th Legislature Regular Session

AI Summary

  • Expands eligibility for workers' compensation PTSD coverage to first responders employed by the state and institutions of higher education, in addition to those employed by political subdivisions

  • Defines covered first responders as peace officers, emergency medical personnel (emergency care attendants, EMTs, advanced EMTs, paramedics), and firefighters certified by the Texas Commission on Fire Protection

  • Requires PTSD to meet American Psychiatric Association diagnostic criteria and be caused by events occurring in the course and scope of employment, with preponderance of evidence showing the events were a producing cause

  • Establishes the date of injury as when the first responder first knew or should have known the disorder may be related to their employment

  • Maintains exclusion of mental or emotional injuries arising from legitimate personnel actions such as transfers, promotions, demotions, or terminations

  • Applies only to claims for injuries occurring on or after September 1, 2025

Legislative Description

Relating to the eligibility of certain first responders for workers' compensation benefits for post-traumatic stress disorder under the workers' compensation system.

Health

Last Action

Left pending in subcommittee

4/29/2025

Committee Referrals

Workforce Subcommittee3/12/2025

Full Bill Text

No bill text available