H.B. No. 3420 aims to enhance mental health policies and services for peace officers, fire fighters, and telecommunicators in Texas. The bill amends the heading of Subchapter A-1, Chapter 614 of the Government Code to reflect the inclusion of fire fighters and telecommunicators in mental health considerations. It introduces a new section, 614.014, which defines key terms such as "employer," "fire fighter," "peace officer," and "telecommunicator." Additionally, it revises Section 614.015 to establish that employers must develop and adopt a mental health leave policy for their peace officers, fire fighters, and telecommunicators who experience traumatic events while performing their duties.

The mental health leave policy mandated by the bill must include clear guidelines for granting leave, ensure that employees do not face salary deductions while on leave, specify the number of leave days available, and outline the level of anonymity for those taking leave. Furthermore, the policy may provide a list of mental health services available in the employer's area. Employers are required to implement this policy as soon as practicable after the bill's effective date, which is set for September 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: Government Code 1701.405 (Government Code 1701)
House Committee Report: Government Code 1701.405 (Government Code 1701)
Engrossed: Government Code 1701.405 (Government Code 1701)