firefighters; peace officers; PTSD; therapy

This Arizona bill expands workers' compensation coverage to allow firefighters and certified peace officers to access methylenedioxymethamphetamine-assisted therapy (MDMA-AT) for post-traumatic stress disorder. The legislation permits these public safety workers to receive one course of this treatment if a licensed psychiatrist deems it reasonable and necessary, provided the Industrial Commission of Arizona has integrated it into its official guidelines. Employers must ensure these employees do not lose pay or benefits for up to thirty days if they are deemed unfit for duty during treatment, and the bill also prohibits using accrued vacation or sick leave for attending therapy sessions. Additionally, the state requires an annual report by January 1, 2026, detailing the costs associated with this new treatment program for these specific groups.