This bill mandates that employers of first responders, specifically law enforcement officers and paid firefighters, provide workers' compensation coverage for up to 12 hours of paid confidential counseling with a licensed mental health professional following a critical incident experienced during their employment. The counseling services are in addition to any existing benefits from employer-sponsored health plans. If a mental health professional recommends further counseling, the employer is required to cover up to an additional 24 hours, with all counseling sessions to be completed within one year of the first visit. Importantly, the bill prohibits employers from requiring the use of accrued leave if counseling occurs during work hours.

Furthermore, the bill establishes confidentiality for mental health support interactions between law enforcement officers and resiliency program officers or peer support team members. These communications are protected from disclosure, except in cases where there is a reasonable belief that the officer poses a risk to themselves or others, or if there is evidence of a crime committed by the officer. This legislation aims to enhance mental health support for first responders, acknowledging the unique challenges they face in their line of duty.