Effective October 29: PTSI Benefits Now Covered for Pennsylvania Fire Fighters

Starting October 29, Senate Bill 365 officially takes effect—marking an important and long-awaited victory for Pennsylvania’s professional firefighters and their families.

For too long, firefighters who suffered from post-traumatic stress injury (PTSI) were denied workers’ compensation benefits for the psychological toll that comes with responding to traumatic emergencies.

SB 365 changes that. The new law recognizes that PTSI is a genuine and serious consequence of the profession and ensures that firefighters who experience trauma in the line of duty can access the same workers’ compensation benefits as those who suffer physical injuries.

The Pennsylvania Professional Fire Fighters Association (PPFFA) fought hard for this reform because protecting those who protect others means addressing both physical and mental health.

Firefighters encounter tragedy and trauma daily—from fatal accidents to life-threatening fires. SB 365 acknowledges that the mental scars of service are real and that those who sacrifice for their communities deserve support when they need it most.

“This law ensures that firefighters no longer have to suffer in silence,” said Bob Brooks, President of the Pennsylvania Professional Fire Fighters Association. “We’ve taken an important step toward treating mental health injuries with the same seriousness as physical ones. It’s about fairness, compassion, and respect for the men and women who serve.”

The PPFFA extends its deepest gratitude to everyone who stood with firefighters to make this possible—especially our champion Representative Jennifer O’Mara, bill sponsor Senator Camera Bartolotta, and Governor Josh Shapiro for signing SB 365 into law. Their leadership and commitment helped make today’s progress a reality.