A bill authored by Rep. Victoria Garcia Wilburn (D-Fishers) to support the mental health of first responders passed out of the Indiana House of Representatives with a vote of 95-0.
House Bill 1321 requires annual in-service virtual training for all first responders, including the professions of law enforcement, full-time professional firefighters and EMS.
“We have made critical first steps this legislative session on focusing on the mental health of Hoosiers, our first responders are no exception, they too need a sustainable pathway to wellness,” Rep. Garcia Wilburn said. “I believe it is vital to provide those that protect us with evidence-based education and training on mental health and wellness. When we have healthy first responders, we have healthy communities. Our first responders see things that we civilians will likely never have to face; we need to ensure they have the resources to maintain mental wellness.”
Garcia Wilburn’s bill now moves to the Senate floor for further consideration. This is the freshman legislator’s first authored piece of legislation to pass out of the House.
“I appreciate the support I have received from my colleagues on both sides of the political aisle who have helped House Bill 1321 out of the House. Let’s keep this momentum up in the Senate! I am thrilled for the chance to help our first responders serve our communities while being at the peak of their mental health.”