HD 2686 Massachusetts House · 194th Legislature (2025-2026)

An Act relative to the disability or death caused by post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)

This bill establishes a presumption that post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) in certain public safety employees was caused by their job duties, if diagnosed within five years of leaving service and not present at the time of hiring. It directly affects police officers, firefighters, correctional staff, airport crash crews, and military fire department members. Under the bill, these employees can receive benefits as if the PTSD occurred "in the line of duty" unless their employer proves it resulted from non-work factors like disciplinary actions. Benefits would be paid retroactively from the date the employee last received regular compensation.
Bill status Introduction 0 of 4 stages cleared
Introduction
Committee Review
Floor Vote
Governor