U.S. Senators Introduce Bipartisan Mental Health Bill For First Responders

U.S. Senators Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY) and Josh Hawley (R-MO) on Friday announced the First Responders Wellness Act, a piece of bipartisan legislation that would expand mental health services to first responders through a grant program. 

First responders face higher rates of behavioral health conditions, such as PTSD and depression, in comparison to ordinary people. EMS providers are 1.39 times more likely to commit suicide, and firefighters and police are less likely to die in the line of duty than by taking their own lives. The First Responders Wellness Act looks to improve post-response mental health for these professionals, while making it account for the occupational culture and hazards that first responders face.

“We must support the men and women who dedicate their lives to protecting ours,” said Senator Gillibrand. “I’m proud to work with Senator Hawley on this important legislation and look forward to getting it across the finish line.”

The First Responders Wellness Act would amend the Omnibus Crime Control and Safe Streets Act of 1968 to enact a mental health service for law enforcement officers, increase the number of mental health providers, establish a first responders mental health hotline, and require the Secretary of Health and Human Services to submit an annual report to congress regarding the hotline. Organizations supporting this bull include the NYPD Sergeants Benevolent Association, the National Fraternal Order of Police, the Federal Law Enforcement Officers Association, and the Suffolk County Sheriff’s Office.