The bill amends Section 45-19-1 of the General Laws in Chapter 45-19, which addresses the relief of injured and deceased firefighters and police officers. Key insertions include provisions for full salary payments during periods of incapacity due to line-of-duty injuries or illnesses, and a presumption that police officers and firefighters diagnosed with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) related to their duties have sustained an injury in the line of duty, unless proven otherwise. The bill also specifies that benefits will not be extended for PTSD diagnoses resulting from disciplinary actions or adverse job actions. Additionally, the definition of "police officer" is expanded to include correctional officers at the Department of Corrections, while the term "airport police officer" is deleted.

The legislation further outlines the requirements for claiming benefits, emphasizing the necessity for sworn declarations regarding the circumstances of the injury or illness. It mandates that individuals receiving injured-on-duty benefits apply for accidental disability retirement within specified timeframes, with a stipulation that failure to do so will result in the termination of their benefits. The bill also provides a grace period for individuals injured prior to July 1, 2019, allowing them up to ninety days to apply for the accidental disability retirement benefit. Overall, these amendments aim to enhance support for first responders facing job-related injuries and mental health challenges while reinforcing the importance of timely applications for benefits.

Statutes affected:
5283: 45-19-1