This bill amends Section 72-451 of the Idaho Code to clarify the conditions under which psychological injuries can be compensated under worker's compensation laws. It specifies that psychological injuries will only be compensated if they are caused by an accident or physical injury, or if they accompany an occupational disease with resultant physical injury. The bill outlines several criteria that must be met for compensation, including that the psychological injury must be the predominant cause of the claim, must be diagnosed by a licensed professional, and must be supported by clear and convincing evidence linking it to the workplace. Additionally, it establishes that no compensation will be provided for psychological injuries arising from personnel-related actions.

Furthermore, the bill introduces specific provisions for first responders suffering from post-traumatic stress injury (PTSI), allowing them to receive compensation if diagnosed by a qualified professional and if there is clear evidence that the injury was caused by events related to their employment. The definition of "first responder" is expanded to include coroners and medicolegal death investigators, along with their employees whose duties involve determining the cause and manner of death. The bill declares an emergency, making it effective on July 1, 2026, and applies the new provisions for first responders to injuries occurring on or after July 1, 2019.

Statutes affected:
Bill Text: 72-451