Fighting Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder Act of 2023 This bill requires the Office of Community Oriented Policing Services within the Department of Justice to report on one or more proposed programs to make treatment or preventative care available to public safety officers and public safety telecommunicators for job-related post-traumatic stress disorder or acute stress disorder. The report must also include draft legislative language related to each proposed program, as well as the estimated cost for administering each proposed program.
Impact
The bill endeavors to address the alarming statistics surrounding mental health in public safety sectors, highlighting that approximately 30% of public safety officers may develop serious behavioral health conditions compared to 20% of the general population. It could potentially lead to reduced rates of PTSD and ASD among officers, fostering a healthier workforce. Furthermore, by ensuring that treatment options are not only available but also confidential, the legislation aims to encourage officers to seek necessary help without fear of stigma or professional repercussions.
Summary
House Bill 472, titled the 'Fighting Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder Act of 2023', aims to provide support and treatment options for public safety officers suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and acute stress disorder (ASD). The bill mandates that the Attorney General propose a comprehensive program to make evidence-based treatments and preventative care accessible to these officers. This reflects a growing recognition of the mental health challenges faced by first responders who regularly deal with traumatic events, thereby significantly impacting their well-being and performance on the job.
Contention
However, the proposal is not without its challenges. Critics might argue about the adequacy of funding and resources necessary for implementing such programs across diverse jurisdictions. Policymakers may need to grapple with the question of how to effectively administer these programs in a way that addresses the unique needs of various public safety organizations and ensures that support is available equitably, whether through in-person or telehealth services. Overall, the success of HB472 will hinge on broad cooperation among different levels of government and the community.
TBI and PTSD Treatment Act This bill requires the Department of Veterans Affairs to furnish hyperbaric oxygen therapy through a provider authorized by the Veterans Community Care Program to veterans who have a traumatic brain injury or post-traumatic stress disorder.
TBI and PTSD Treatment Act This bill requires the Department of Veterans Affairs to furnish hyperbaric oxygen therapy through a provider authorized by the Veterans Community Care Program to veterans who have a traumatic brain injury or post-traumatic stress disorder.
A resolution designating June 2023 as "National Post-Traumatic Stress Awareness Month" and June 27, 2023, as "National Post-Traumatic Stress Awareness Day".
Residential Substance Use Disorder Treatment Act of 2023 This bill revises and reauthorizes through FY2027 grants for residential substance use disorder treatment programs at state and local correctional and detention facilities. Among the revisions, the bill replaces statutory references to substance abuse with substance use disorder, specifies that the term residential substance use disorder treatment program includes a medication-assisted treatment program, requires the chief medical officer or other staff overseeing a program to complete training on the science of addiction and the latest research and clinical guidance on treating substance use disorders in criminal justice settings, and allows people who are awaiting trial or in pretrial detention to participate in the programs.
Expressing support for the designation of the month of June 2024 as "National Post-Traumatic Stress Awareness Month" and June 27, 2024, as "National Post-Traumatic Stress Awareness Day".