The "New Jersey First Responders Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder Protection Act" aims to provide employment protections for paid first responders diagnosed with work-related post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Under this bill, employers are prohibited from discharging, harassing, or discriminating against employees based on their request for leave related to a qualifying PTSD diagnosis. A diagnosis qualifies if it is made by a licensed physician or mental health professional and arises from either experiencing or witnessing a traumatic event during the performance of their duties or due to vicarious trauma from their work.

If an employer violates these provisions, affected employees or former employees can file a civil action in the Superior Court, where they may seek various remedies, including civil fines, reinstatement, compensation for lost wages, and coverage of legal costs. The bill specifies that a first responder includes law enforcement officers, paid firefighters, emergency medical technicians, and other related roles. The act is set to take effect immediately upon passage.