The crisis of first responders’ mental health has long been a pressing issue, with six police officers across New York dying by suicide in 2025, according to the New York Post. This alarming trend has lawmakers pushing forward legislation to address stigma, confidentiality, and provide meaningful support to first responders.
A System Built on Shared Experience
The reintroduced Lt. Joseph Banish Mental Health Act aims to establish a formal, confidential peer support system for police officers, firefighters, EMTs, and others. The bill would amend New York’s mental hygiene law to recognize and regulate peer counseling programs, ensuring that participating departments and county programs provide specialized training and maintain confidentiality.
How it Works
The program would focus on peer-to-peer support, based on the belief that officers are more likely to speak openly with those who’ve experienced similar stressors and trauma. This structure is modeled after programs already in place in states such as Oregon, Kentucky, and Massachusetts, where peer-to-peer models have been implemented with confidentiality safeguards.
- The program would require participating departments and county programs to provide specialized training for peer counselors.
- Peer counselors would be required to maintain confidentiality, similar to models already in place in other states.
- The program would provide a safe and confidential space for officers to speak openly about their mental health struggles.
Lawmakers and Advocates Weigh In
Skoufis, who supports the bill, stated that “First responders face significantly higher mental health issues compared to the general population. Their work is intense, unpredictable, and regularly exposes them to high-stress environments.” He emphasized the need to address the mental health of first responders, saying “We have to address the mental health of the first responders our communities count on. I am proud to support New York’s police departments, fire departments, and EMTs and will continue to work to ensure they receive the resources they need.”
A Long-Standing Effort
Nassau County Police Benevolent Association President Tommy Shevlin has been advocating for mental health support for police officers since 2019. He believes that more systemic support is urgently needed, stating that “Police officers are three times more likely to die by suicide than be killed in the line of duty.” Shevlin has worked with lawmakers to address police officer mental health, and the union already offers 24/7 access to mental health clinicians and requires check-ins for probationary officers.
States Introduce Mental Health Bills for First Responders
In addition to New York, lawmakers in several other states have introduced legislation this session aimed at expanding mental health resources for first responders:
– North Carolina bill would cover PTSD, anxiety for police, fire and EMS
House Bill 463, reintroduced in North Carolina’s 2025–2026 session, would provide supplemental insurance for first responders experiencing psychological trauma. Covered conditions would include PTSD, anxiety, and depression. – Texas lawmakers push for peer support network for first responders
Senate Bill 2555, filed in April 2025, proposes a statewide peer support network for Texas law enforcement and fire service personnel. – Illinois maintains focus on first responder mental health grants
Senate Bill 696, introduced in the Illinois General Assembly, makes a technical amendment to the state’s First Responder Mental Health Grant Program Act.
Federal Bill Proposes National Mental Health Hotline
At the federal level, the First Responders Wellness Act (S.666) was introduced in early 2025 in the U.S. Senate. The bipartisan bill would create a dedicated mental health hotline for first responders, offering peer support and emotional wellness services, brief mental health interventions, and referrals to licensed behavioral health professionals.
Conclusion
The crisis of first responders’ mental health has reached a critical point, with lawmakers and advocates working to provide meaningful support and resources to those who put others first. The Lt. Joseph Banish Mental Health Act and other legislation aim to address stigma, confidentiality, and provide a safe space for officers to speak openly about their mental health struggles. As the fight continues, it’s clear that the well-being of first responders is a pressing concern that requires immediate attention.
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