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HB 26

AN ACT relating to workers' compensation for first responders.

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Chad Aull and 5 co-sponsors

HB 26 aims to expand and clarify workers’ compensation protections for first responders, improving eligibility and benefits for injuries and related conditions.

to Economic Development & Workforce Investment (H)
#emergencymedicalservices #firefightersandfiredepartments #laborandindustry #mentalhealth #militaryaffairsandcivildefense #occupationsandprofessions #peaceofficersandlawenforcement #stateemployees #workerscompensation
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HB 26

Summary of HB 26 (2026RS) – Kentucky

Purpose and intent

HB 26, introduced in January 2026 and referred to the Economic Development & Workforce Investment Committee, appears to address workers’ compensation issues specifically for first responders. The bill aims to clarify, expand, or modify eligibility, benefits, and processes related to workers’ compensation for individuals in first-responder roles. The exact statutory language is not provided here, but the bill’s title signals a focus on aligning workers’ compensation protections and remedies with the unique risks and needs of first responders.

Key provisions and changes (anticipated themes)

Note: The precise text of HB 26 is not included in the summary provided. Based on the bill’s title and common legislative patterns for first responder workers’ compensation measures, potential areas of change may include:

  • Eligibility enhancements

    • Broader definitions of “first responder” to include police, firefighters, EMTs, and potentially other public safety workers.
    • Coverage for work-related illnesses or injuries incurred in the line of duty, including mental health conditions such as post-traumatic stress.

  • Benefits and compensation

    • Modified or enhanced benefits for medical treatment, wage replacement, temporary or permanent disability, and vocational rehabilitation.
    • Specified timelines for medical treatment approvals and benefit determinations.

  • Medical and treatment provisions

    • Required or encouraged access to certain medical providers or treatment protocols.
    • Provisions for urgent or emergency care and streamlined authorization processes.

  • Second injury fund, penalties, or penalties avoidance

    • Adjustments to funding mechanisms or cost-sharing related to first-responder claims.
    • Penalties or sanctions for fraudulent or improper claims may be clarified or reinforced.

  • Administrative process and appeals

    • Changes to filing deadlines, notification requirements, or hearing procedures.
    • Streamlining or clarifying appeals within the workers’ compensation system.

  • Employer responsibilities

    • Clearer duties for employers to report injuries, maintain safety records, and cooperate with claims processing.
    • Possible employer incentives or requirements for safer workplaces and early intervention.

Who is affected

  • Covered workers: First responders and possibly related public safety personnel in Kentucky (e.g., police, firefighters, emergency medical services, and other designated roles).
  • Employers: Public sector agencies, private employers with first-responder employees, and any entity involved in the provision of workers’ compensation coverage for first responders.
  • Healthcare providers and insurers: Entities administering medical care, approving benefits, or processing workers’ compensation claims for first responders.

Procedural and timeline aspects

  • Status: Introduced on January 6, 2026, and referred to the Committee on Economic Development & Workforce Investment. The committee assignment indicates initial review focusing on workforce implications and economic considerations.
  • Next steps: HB 26 would proceed through committee hearings, potential amendments, floor votes in the House, and, if advanced, movement through the Senate with similar committee actions and potential conference considerations.

Potential impact

  • Workers’ protections: If enacted, the bill could expand or clarify workers’ compensation protections for first responders, potentially improving access to medical care, faster benefits, and support for mental health challenges related to service.
  • Public safety workforce: By codifying enhanced protections or streamlined processes, the bill could influence recruitment, retention, and morale among first-responder personnel.
  • Fiscal considerations: Changes to benefit structures or eligibility could impact the cost of workers’ compensation programs for employers and the state, influencing premiums, funding mechanisms, or state resources dedicated to public safety.

If you have the bill’s text or specific provisions, I can provide a point-by-point breakdown of exact changes, definitions, and numerical details.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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