The proposed bill would update current statutes by introducing new provisions that authorize law enforcement agencies (LEAs) in Arizona to establish wellness programs focused on the mental health and well-being of their employees. This includes access to licensed counseling, crisis response services, and necessary training and equipment. The bill requires LEAs to create written policies for these wellness programs and ensures confidentiality protections for records and communications related to the programs, with specific exceptions for disclosures under certain circumstances. Furthermore, the bill adds crisis response services programs to support public safety employees who encounter traumatic events, emphasizing the confidentiality of communications within these services. It specifies that such communications are privileged, similar to attorney-client privilege, unless certain conditions are met. The bill also defines key terms such as "licensed counseling," "crisis response services," and "designated person," while making technical changes to existing language to align with the new provisions. Overall, the bill aims to enhance mental health support for public safety employees while ensuring the confidentiality of their counseling and crisis response communications.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 38-1121, 41-710.04, 13-3620, 46-454
Senate Engrossed Version: 38-1121, 41-710.04, 38-1111, 38-672
House Engrossed Version: 38-1121, 41-710.04, 38-1111, 38-672
Chaptered Version: 38-1121, 41-710.04, 38-1111, 38-672