The bill amends Minnesota Statutes 2024, section 299A.477, subdivision 2, to clarify the scope of the Hometown Heroes Assistance Program, which is administered by the Minnesota Firefighter Initiative. The program is designed to provide support to Minnesota firefighters through various means, including critical illness coverage for those diagnosed with a critical illness after August 1, 2021, and a customized psychotherapy program that addresses emotional trauma. The bill specifies that the psychotherapy program will include peer-to-peer support and allow firefighters to access up to five sessions per year with mental health professionals.

Additionally, the bill modifies the training requirements for firefighters by removing the term "annually" and replacing it with "make available," ensuring that at least two hours of training on critical illnesses, emotional trauma, and suicide prevention strategies are provided. The training will be conducted by firefighters who have completed a preparatory course. The bill also includes provisions for administrative costs associated with the Minnesota Firefighter Initiative's activities. The changes will take effect the day following final enactment.

Statutes affected:
Introduction: 299A.477