Title: Workers' Compensation Benefits for First Responders

Summary: Providing that the time for specified notice in certain cases of compensable posttraumatic stress disorder is measured from the time of the qualifying event or the diagnosis of the disorder, rather than the manifestation of the disorder, whichever is later, etc.

Full Text:
An act relating to workers  compensation benefits for first responders; amending s. 112.1815, F.S.; providing that the time for specified notice in certain cases of compensable posttraumatic stress disorder is measured from the time of the qualifying event or the diagnosis of the disorder, rather than the manifestation of the disorder, whichever is later; providing a declaration of important state interest; providing an effective date. Be It Enacted by the Legislature of the State of Florida: Section 1. Paragraph (d) of subsection (5) of section 112.1815, Florida Statutes, is amended to read: 112.1815 Firefighters, paramedics, emergency medical technicians, and law enforcement officers; special provisions for employment-related accidents and injuries.  (5) (d) The time for notice of injury or death in cases of compensable posttraumatic stress disorder under this subsection is the same as in s. 440.151(6) and is measured from one of the qualifying events listed in subparagraph (a)2. or the diagnosis manifestation of the disorder, whichever is later. A claim under this subsection must be properly noticed within weeks after the qualifying event or the diagnosis of the disorder, whichever is later.Section 2.  The Legislature determines and declares that this act fulfills an important state interest. Section 3. This act shall take effect July 1, 2022.