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HD 1469

An Act relative to the well-being of law enforcement officers after involvement in a critical incident

194th Legislature (2025-2026) Introduced by Michelle Badger and 5 co-sponsors

Massachusetts bill mandates post-critical-incident mental health support, counseling, and duty restrictions for law enforcement officers to address trauma and prevent officer suicide and performance decline.

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Bill Summary · HD 1469

Legislative bill overview

HD 1469 establishes mandatory mental health support and wellness protocols for law enforcement officers following critical incidents such as officer-involved shootings, in-custody deaths, or traumatic events. The bill requires police departments to provide immediate crisis intervention, peer support, and access to counseling services, while also creating standards for when officers can return to duty.

Why is this important

Police officers experience high rates of PTSD, depression, and suicide, with critical incidents significantly elevating these risks. Establishing structured post-incident mental health protocols can prevent long-term psychological deterioration, reduce officer-involved errors, and demonstrate departmental commitment to officer welfare—ultimately benefiting both officers and public safety.

Potential points of contention

  • Cost and implementation burden: Mandatory mental health services require funding, staff training, and infrastructure that smaller departments may struggle to provide
  • Duty restrictions vs. officer autonomy: Requirements that officers undergo evaluation before returning to duty raise questions about due process, privacy rights, and whether officers could challenge these restrictions
  • Confidentiality concerns: Balancing mental health documentation (which could be discoverable in lawsuits) against officer privacy protections and encouraging officers to seek help
  • Scope of "critical incidents": Defining which incidents trigger mandatory support and whether the criteria are too broad or too narrow

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

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