Rep. McNamara’s bill safeguarding mental health debriefing for public safety officials moves to governor
Story provided by Wendy McNamara
STATEHOUSE (March 26, 2025) – State Rep. Wendy McNamara’s (R-Evansville) bill protecting critical incident stress management (CISM) services for first responders passed the Senate and now moves to the governor for consideration as a new law.
McNamara said CISM debriefings are used by police, firefighters, emergency medical service providers, and other public safety officials after they face a stressful or dangerous situation while on the job. House Enrolled Act 1118 would change the Indiana code so any first responder using a CISM debriefing would not be compelled to disclose those conversations in a civil, criminal or administrative proceeding.
“Whether it is responding to a dangerous fire, apprehending a criminal or providing lifesaving medical care, our public safety officers consistently face stressful circumstances,” McNamara said. “CISM debriefings can play a crucial role in ensuring these heroes can discuss and move forward from trauma.”
First responders face PTSD and depression at a rate five times higher than the civilian population, according to the Ruderman Family Foundation. To help them, Indiana has more than 40 CISM teams, according to the Indiana Department of Homeland Security, comprised of trained peer volunteers who can offer care at the scene or counsel for responders afterwards.
To learn more about House Enrolled Act 1118 and follow session, visit iga.in.gov.
