An Act Concerning Workers' Compensation And Post-traumatic Stress Disorder.
By removing the physical injury prerequisite, HB05914 significantly broadens the scope of coverage under the Workers' Compensation Act. This change is designed to ensure that workers suffering from PTSD, particularly those in high-stress or high-risk occupations such as first responders and military personnel, can access necessary treatment without having to prove a physical injury. This amendment may also incentivize employers to better address mental health issues within their workplaces, creating a more supportive environment for employees.
House Bill 05914, introduced by Representative Hewett, aims to amend the Workers' Compensation Act by eliminating the requirement that a physical injury must occur prior to treatment for post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). The primary objective of this bill is to enhance the support provided to employees who experience PTSD as a result of their work, acknowledging that mental health issues can arise independently of any physical injuries sustained during employment.
While many support this measure as a progressive move towards recognizing and addressing mental health in the workplace, there may be points of contention regarding its implementation and the potential costs to employers. Opponents might argue that the bill could lead to abuse of the Workers' Compensation system, where employees could claim PTSD without concurrent physical injuries. Additionally, concerns about increased premiums for employers and the overall financial impact on the workers' compensation system could be raised, leading to debates about balancing employee rights with financial sustainability.