Georgia lawmakers are considering a bill that would allow first responders, such as EMT’s and firefighters, to collect workers compensation in certain instances where they have witnessed or experienced trauma on the job.

The bill has bipartisan support, and Georgia House Speaker David Ralston has already said that mental health would be a priority in this year’s legislative session.

But the fate of House Bill 855 remained uncertain after Rep. Bill Werkheiser, R-Glennville, chairman of the House Industry & Labor Committee, announced he would refer it for vetting to a 110-member council that advises the State Board of Workers’ Compensation.

The committee discussed the legislation for more than 90 minutes without voting on it, hearing emotional testimony from first responders who have suffered PTSD.

Compiled Sources