Bill
LC 2296
Overview: Bill Number: LC 2296, Title: Allow a local first response entity to establish a peer support program, Status: (LC) Draft Delivered to Requester, Introduced: December 08,
Overview: Bill Number: LC 2296, Title: Allow a local first response entity to establish a peer support program, Status: (LC) Draft Delivered to Requester, Introduced: December 08, 2024
Purpose and Intent: The goal of this bill is to authorize local fire departments, emergency medical services, and law enforcement agencies to create peer support programs for their personnel. These programs would provide confidential counseling and mental health resources to help first responders cope with the stresses and traumas they encounter on the job.
Key Provisions:
- Permits first response entities to establish voluntary peer support programs
- Requires peer support communications to be kept confidential, with limited exceptions for imminent threats of harm
- Protects peer support members from being compelled to testify about confidential discussions
- Allows the state to provide grants to help first response agencies implement peer support initiatives
Affected Parties and Impacts: This legislation would directly benefit first responders, including firefighters, EMTs, paramedics, and law enforcement officers. It aims to improve mental health outcomes and reduce burnout and turnover in these critical public safety roles.
Procedural and Timeline Considerations: The bill is currently in draft form and has been delivered to the requesting legislator. If enacted, the new peer support program authorization would take effect 60 days after the governor's signature.
Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.
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