HB1505

This bill mandates that public employers in Arkansas provide coverage for licensed mental health counseling for public safety employees who experience traumatic events while on duty. 'Public safety employees' are defined to include firefighters, police officers, probation officers, surveillance officers, and detention officers. The coverage allows for up to 12 counseling sessions per calendar year, with the possibility of carrying over unused sessions to a maximum of 18 visits per year. Public employers are responsible for paying the costs, specifically covering deductibles and conditions associated with the employee's current health insurance plan. The bill specifies that these services must be provided by qualified licensed mental health professionals specializing in trauma and crisis. An emergency clause is included to make the legislation effective immediately, addressing the expiration of prior similar legislation and emphasizing the necessity of mental health support for maintaining public safety.