Measure seeks first responder stress disorders aid

Lawmakers are commending Senate approval of a measure they said seeks to aid first responders in coping with the stresses of responding to crisis situations.

U.S. Sens. Todd Young (R-IN) and Chuck Grassley (R-IA) joined eight colleagues in co-sponsoring the Fighting Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) Act of 2023. It establishes mental health programs for first responders often facing long-term impacts from providing life-saving services in moments of crisis.

“Our first responders put their lives on the line every day to ensure the safety and security of Hoosier families,” Young said. “The Fighting PTSD Act would increase the resources available to public safety officers dealing with job-related post-traumatic stress disorder. Increasing this support to our public safety officer community will lead to healthier and stronger communities across Indiana and our country.”

Young said he is glad the entire Senate unanimously agreed to advance the legislation and called on the House of Representatives to pass it quickly.

Bill provisions include requiring the Justice Department to establish first responder evidence-based treatment programs nationwide, similar to services available to military personnel who develop PTSD or acute stress disorders; and stipulate the Justice Department consult with stakeholders, including public safety officer organizations, to create the program.

“It should be no secret to anyone that all of our first responders; Police, Fire, EMT, and Dispatchers, endure an enormous amount of stressors over their careers,” Indiana Fraternal Order of Police President Bill Owensby said. “As a result, medical issues, early retirement, and a surprising number of suicides plague the professions-most of it tied to PTSD.”