The GMA-GIRMA First Responder PTSD Program ensures that public entities comply with legal requirements to provide essential benefits for first responders diagnosed with occupational post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). This program is designed to support the mental well-being of first responders, giving them access to the care they need so they can continue serving their communities and families at their best.
The Ashley Wilson Act (the Act or HB451) requires all public entities in Georgia to offer a supplemental benefit program for first responders diagnosed with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) resulting from exposure to line of duty traumatic events. It creates a once-per-lifetime financial safety net to assist with uninsured costs associated with PTSD treatment and recovery. A first responder may access the benefits quickly and confidentially without worry over stigma or job loss. The Act does not impact employer health plans, which are required to provide coverage for PTSD and other mental health conditions.
The program is fully insured and backed by MetLife (A.M. Best rating of A+ (Superior)).
Covered Condition
The Act provides benefits for Eligible First Responders with a “covered condition” of PTSD that is the direct result of an experience of or exposure to a traumatic event during the normal course of their regular occupational or volunteer duties on behalf of a public entity.
To be a covered condition, the PTSD must be diagnosed by a qualified diagnostician no more than two years after the date of the traumatic event.
- The effective date of the law (when claims may first be submitted) is January 1, 2025.
- The traumatic event must occur on or after July 1, 2024.
- HB 451 defines a traumatic event as an actual or threatened death, severe injury, or act of sexual violence. In cases involving multiple traumatic events occurring after July 1, 2024, the traumatic event is the most recent event determined by the qualified diagnostician to be related to the symptoms of PTSD.
- An eligible First Responder may file a claim for the supplemental benefits up to 24 months following end of service provided the traumatic event resulting in the PTSD occurred when the First Responder was in active service.
- Qualified diagnosticians are psychiatrists, psychologists, and physicians who are board certified in the medical specialty appropriate for trauma related health diagnoses.
Who is Eligible?
An eligible First Responder means any of the following:
- Communications Officer
- Emergency Medical Professional
- Firefighter
- Jail Officer
- Peace Officer (including law enforcement officer with the Department of Natural Resources)
- Correctional Officer
- Emergency Medical Technician
- Highway Emergency Response Operator
- Juvenile Correctional Officer
- Probation Officer
Benefits
The Act requires two once-per-lifetime benefits. The first is a $3,000 lump-sum benefit paid following diagnosis of occupational PTSD by a qualified diagnostician. The second is a long-term disability benefit if the eligible first responder is no longer able to perform their duties as a first responder.
- The disability benefit begins 90 days after the First Responder is determined to be unable to continue work as a first responder due to the covered condition, despite receipt of appropriate treatment.
- The disability benefit is paid monthly for up to 36 months.
- Paid first responders receive 60% of their monthly pay to a maximum of $5,000 per month.
- Volunteer first responders receive $1,500 per month.
For more information, access to forms, claims service, and more, please visit the Georgia First Responders PTSD Program website.