In a significant victory for Oklahoma first responders, lawmakers have passed a bipartisan bill that allows them to seek medical care for diagnosed PTSD without having to pay out of pocket. This bill, known as Senate Bill 1457, was supported by Tulsa Firefighters Union Local 176 President Matt Lay, who emphasized the importance of addressing mental health issues in those who serve and protect.
Lay highlighted the challenges in identifying mental health issues compared to physical injuries and how this bill will make a difference for first responders. For individuals struggling with their mental health, resources are available through the International Association of Firefighters Recovery Center and other support systems.
The impact of mental trauma hits close to home for many Oklahoma Highway Patrol officers, including Trooper Matthew Krupczyk, who is a military veteran. Krupczyk expressed his support for anything that could help individuals with PTSD, based on his personal experiences and interactions with friends and family members. Large Oklahoma departments have access to providers like First Responders Support Services and Oklahoma First Responders Wellness Division, but compensation for diagnosed PTSD treatment has been lacking.
While similar bills have failed in the past, Oklahoma’s legislature successfully passed SB1457 on May 2 with unanimous support from the Senate. State Fraternal Order of Police Chairman Mark Nelson believes that this bill will be instrumental in saving lives, especially considering the federal recognition of suicide as a line of duty death for officers. Lay expressed his hope to stand beside Governor Kevin Stitt during the bill signing, acknowledging the significance of this legislation for first responders.
The passage of SB1457 marks a positive step towards providing necessary treatment options for first responders in Oklahoma, bringing much-needed support to those who dedicate their lives to serving and protecting others.