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Bill

HB 1190

MS First Responder PTSD and Suicide Prevention Task Force; create.

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Kevin Felsher and 1 co-sponsor

Mississippi bill creates task force to study and prevent PTSD and suicide among first responders through recommendations and resource development.

Died In Committee
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Bill Summary · HB 1190

Legislative bill overview

HB 1190 would establish a task force in Mississippi dedicated to addressing PTSD and suicide prevention among first responders (police, firefighters, emergency personnel). The task force would be responsible for studying the problem, developing prevention strategies, and making recommendations to improve mental health support and resources for these high-risk populations.

Why is this important

First responders experience significantly higher rates of PTSD and suicide than the general population due to repeated trauma exposure. Creating a dedicated task force acknowledges this public health crisis and could lead to evidence-based interventions, improved training, peer support programs, and access to mental health services that are tailored to the unique stressors first responders face.

Potential points of contention

  • Funding and implementation: The bill's effectiveness depends on dedicated budget allocation; without clear funding mechanisms, recommendations may go unimplemented
  • Scope and authority: Questions about whether the task force has sufficient authority to compel participation from agencies or implement recommendations across jurisdictions
  • Stigma concerns: Some worry mandatory mental health screening or reporting requirements could discourage first responders from seeking help due to career advancement fears

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

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