How PTSD impacts first responders and how HB 451 could help

Closer Look with Rose Scott

On today's special edition of "Closer Look with Rose Scott," we begin a two-day series discussing a serious health risk among first responders: post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). According to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration, 1 in 3 police officers, firefighters and other emergency personnel are impacted by the disorder. Rose talks with several guests including advocates and first responders about how PSTD affects them and why they are supporting HB 451. The proposed bill would create an insurance program that provides worker’s compensation to first responders who experience trauma.

Guests include:

Gwinnett County Police Sergeant Ashley Wilson

Brandi Cook, the sister of Gwinnett Battalion Chief Chris Baggett

Lyndsey Perry, a 15-year law enforcement veteran

Butch Ayers, the executive director of the Georgia Association of Chiefs of Police

David Eddins, the fire chief of the Waycross Fire Department and the past president of the Georgia Association of Fire Chiefs

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