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Bill Summary · SB 394

Legislative bill overview

SB 394 would extend workers' compensation coverage to include post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) diagnoses for Montana first responders, including police officers, firefighters, and emergency medical personnel. The bill treats PTSD as a compensable occupational injury when diagnosed following job-related traumatic exposure, without requiring proof of physical injury.

Why is this important

First responders face elevated rates of PTSD due to repeated trauma exposure, yet many states—including Montana—have not traditionally covered mental health conditions under workers' compensation. This bill directly affects whether first responders can access employer-funded treatment and disability benefits for a serious occupational health consequence, with significant implications for recruitment, retention, and public safety workforce wellness.

Potential points of contention

  • Cost and precedent concerns: Expanding workers' comp to mental health conditions may increase employer insurance premiums and could open pathways for other occupational mental health claims, raising questions about financial sustainability and claim verification standards
  • Diagnosis and causation standards: Determining which PTSD cases are work-related versus pre-existing or caused by non-occupational trauma creates administrative complexity and potential for disputed claims
  • Veto reasoning: The Governor's veto suggests concerns about fiscal impact, implementation feasibility, or policy scope—reasons not publicly detailed but likely central to opposition

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

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