Idaho law doesn't cover PTSD for first responders. Some lawmakers want to change that

In the last year, Eagle Fire Battalion Chief Rob Shoplock has taken calls from three fellow firefighters who had suicidal thoughts because of what they experienced on the job.

All three sought counseling, but they paid for it out of their own pocket because it wasn’t covered by workers’ compensation.

Some lawmakers are aiming to change that come January, when the Idaho Legislature’s 2019 session starts.

Rep. Mat Erpelding, D-Boise, led a Thursday press conference outside of Boise’s City Hall West to outline legislation drafted, with bipartisan support, to include psychological injury as a condition that must be covered by Idaho’s Workers’ Compensation law for first responders. Psychological conditions are not currently covered unless those issues are accompanied by a related physical injury.

Read more: https://www.idahostatesman.com/news/politics-government/state-politics/article220608190.html