Georgia lawmaker files bill addressing first responders’ mental health needs
In Georgia, first responders can file a workers’ compensation claim if they experience a physical injury on the job, but not for post-traumatic stress disorder and other psychological injuries.
State Rep.Gregg Kennard, a Democrat from Lawrenceville, says Georgia is dead last for access to mental health resources and his phone has been ringing off the hook with first responders asking for something to be done on a legislative level.
“There’s a higher chance that a law enforcement officer will die by suicide than in the line of duty,” said Kennard.
Kennard, a guest on Tuesday’s edition of “Closer Look,” talked with program host Rose Scott about House Bill 855, a bill that aims to address mental and behavioral health needs of first responders in Georgia by allowing first responders to file a workers’ compensation claim if they experience a psychological injury without a physical injury on the job.
“Mental health is health, your brain is an organ just like your heart, just your kidney, and it can be injured,” explained Kennard.
To listen to the full conversation, click the audio player above.
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