The Ohio House has once again approved a measure covering post-traumatic stress disorder for emergency responders who haven't suffered a physical injury.
“Our brave first responders deserve to have PTSD illnesses treated under our law, even though the law does consider them comparable to a physical injury,” said Rep. Tom Patton of Strongsville, who wrote the bill. “Making this change will ensure the much-needed relief for first responders who have served the public and suffer from PTSD as a result of performing their duties.”
Police and firefighters have been pushing for the coverage under the state insurance fund for injured workers for years. Representatives from the Ohio Association of Professional Fire Fighters, Ohio State Medical Association, Columbus Fire Fighters IAFF Local 67, and Fraternal Order of Police of Ohio testified in support of the bill during committee hearings.