PHOENIX (AP) - A House panel has passed a measure that would allow police officers to receive worker's compensation for post-traumatic stress disorder.
Rep. Mark Finchem of Oro Valley sponsored the bill to modify state law that only allows worker's compensation for personal injuries or accidents.
Finchem said his bill is a stop-gap measure allowing law enforcement to get the help they need while a legislative committee continues to study the issue.
Police officers shed tears during the hearing while discussing their personal experiences and the stigma that ordinarily prevents law enforcement from talking about the psychological impact of traumatic events.
The House Committee on Military Affairs and Public Safety unanimously passed House Bill 2602 Wednesday. It now undergoes a standard review before going to a House vote.
