House Enrolled Act 1321, authored by State Rep. Victoria Garcia Wilburn (D-Fishers), received a ceremonial signing from Gov. Eric Holcomb on Monday after being passed by both chambers last month.
This is the first authored piece of legislation by Garcia Wilburn, a freshman legislator, to be signed into law.
House Enrolled Act 1321 aims to improve the mental health of Indiana’s heroic first responders. This bill requires annual in-service virtual training for first responders, including law enforcement, full-time professional firefighters, and EMS.
“First responders are an invaluable part of their communities as they risk their lives to keep Hoosiers safe,” Garcia Wilburn said. “Being on the front line of running into burning buildings, active shooter situations and other emergencies does not come without a price. The psychological toll that accompanies being under regular physical threat is too often overlooked because the individuals in these positions are recognized as inherently brave and strong-willed. The stigma surrounding mental health conditions such as PTSD, depression, anxiety and suicidal thoughts, as well as a lack of resources serve as roadblocks for people in these selfless roles to get the help they need.
“HEA 1321 is a vital step toward addressing the quiet suffering endured by first responders. The evidence-based training outlined in this bill targets mental health and wellness as well as suicide prevention. Far too many firefighters, police officers and other responders have spent a career saving lives only to take their own. Our community protectors deserve to live long and happy lives. Learning how to deal with mental health struggles will help them achieve that.
“The law signed today is a considerable victory for our state. As society begins to accept and discuss mental health more openly, it is important to stop turning a blind eye to the struggle of those who serve in these noble professions.
“Today, I think of my husband, a retired law enforcement officer, and all of those who served with him. I think of my loved ones, friends and neighbors that will have the chance to live a more peaceful life. Indiana has a chance to lead the nation, to set an example of how to honor people in these uniforms by supporting them in facing mental health struggles.
“I am proud that I could champion this crucial cause as my first piece of legislation. I am so grateful for all my fellow legislators who worked on this legislation with me and voted to pass HEA 1321, as well as advocates like the cities of Carmel and Fishers Police and Fire Departments, the Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department, the Indiana State Fraternal Order of Police, the Professional Firefighters Union of Indiana, the Indiana Fire Chiefs Association, Mental Health America, Indiana Association of Chiefs of Police and the Nielsen and Phelps families, who came to testify in support of the law.”
Garcia Wilburn was joined by FOP President Bill Owensby; former Boone County Sheriff Michael T. Nielsen; Steven McCaffrey of Mental Health America; JC Mitchell of Carmel Fire; Indiana Department of Homeland Security Director Joel Thacker; Carmel Police Chief of Administration Brady Myers; PFFUI President Tony Murray and Vice President Mike Whited; IMPD Assistant Chief Bailey; Brandon George, formerly of Mental Health America; Karie and Jeff Phelps, constituents and advocates; Fishers Chief of Police Ed Gebhart; Justin Phillips of Overdose Lifeline; and Chris Wilburn, family.
House Enrolled Act 1321 will go into effect on July 1, 2025.