The bill, H.B. No. 1667, amends the Texas Labor Code to enhance the eligibility of certain first responders for workers' compensation benefits specifically related to post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). It clarifies that PTSD is a compensable injury for first responders, provided that the disorder is diagnosed as being caused by events occurring in the course of their employment. The definition of "first responder" is expanded to include individuals employed by the state, political subdivisions, or institutions of higher education, and it specifies the types of licensed emergency medical personnel and firefighters included under this designation.

Additionally, the bill transfers and redesignates existing legal language regarding PTSD coverage for first responders from Section 504.019 to Section 408.0061, while also making minor amendments to the definitions and criteria for compensability. The changes will only apply to claims for injuries occurring on or after the effective date of the Act, which is set for September 1, 2025. Claims based on injuries that occurred prior to this date will continue to be governed by the previous law.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: Labor Code 408.006 (Labor Code 408)