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HB 2060

Workers' compensation benefits; post-traumatic stress disorder incurred by firefighters, etc.

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Elizabeth Bennett-Parker and 12 co-sponsors

Expands Virginia workers' compensation to cover PTSD for firefighters and first responders, providing medical and wage benefits for job-related mental health trauma.

Passed by indefinitely in Finance and Appropriations (11-Y 3-N)
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Bill Summary · HB 2060

Legislative bill overview

HB 2060 would expand Virginia's workers' compensation coverage to include post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) as a compensable injury for firefighters and certain other first responders. Currently, workers' compensation in Virginia typically requires a physical injury or occupational disease, making mental health conditions difficult to claim even when job-related.

Why is this important

First responders regularly face traumatic events—mass casualty incidents, child deaths, suicides—that can trigger serious mental health conditions affecting their ability to work and quality of life. Expanding workers' compensation coverage would provide medical treatment and wage replacement benefits for affected firefighters, addressing a documented public health gap while potentially reducing reliance on disability insurance and other safety net programs.

Potential points of contention

  • Cost to employers and insurers: Expanding compensable injuries increases workers' compensation insurance premiums for fire departments and municipalities, potentially straining already tight budgets
  • Causation and diagnosis challenges: PTSD can be difficult to definitively link to a specific work incident versus cumulative exposure or pre-existing conditions, raising questions about claims eligibility and potential for fraudulent filings
  • Scope limitations: The bill's definition of which first responders qualify (firefighters "etc.") and what triggering events count may be ambiguous, leading to disputes over coverage and inconsistent application across jurisdictions

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

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