SAINT PAUL, Minn. – Today, the Minnesota Public Safety Finance and Policy Committee heard House File 1234, authored by Rep. Kaohly Vang Her (DFL – Saint Paul). This bill establishes treatment requirements for mental illness for eligible peace officers and firefighters prior to applying for duty disability benefits. The bill also adds preservice and in-service wellness training requirements and appropriates money to reimburse employers.
“This bill contains many stakeholders’ input to ensure our disability and mental health benefits for peace officers and firefighters are available and fair,” said Rep. Her. “We are trying to solve a really big problem. And all stakeholders are committed to continuing work on this issue into the future. However, when we don’t fix these policies around disability benefits, the liabilities will continue to increase on current employees, and the entire plan is jeopardized.”
Nisswa City Administrator Jenny Max; and Public Safety Director for Lino Lakes John Swenson both testified in support of the bill. The bill was re-referred to the Judicial Finance and Civil Law Committee. The Senate’s companion bill is moving through its committees. Video of the floor session will be available on House Public Information Services’ YouTube Channel.
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