Members of the Veterans, Military Affairs, and Public Protection Committee passed HB 486, a bill that would give rescue squad members access to vital mental health support and counseling services. This bill, sponsored by Representative Bill Wesley of Ravenna, would allow rescue squad members to participate in the Alan “Chip” Terry Professional Development and Wellness Program.
“Our rescue squad members face the same traumatic and high-stress situations as firefighters and other first responders,” said Wesley. “HB 486 give our rescue squad members the option to seek help through this program.”
The program, which is administered by the Kentucky Fire Commission, uses seminar-based peer support and counseling services to reduce negative mental and behavioral health outcomes in firefighters across the commonwealth. This legislation would only give rescue squad members access to this established program.
This legislation has gained support from the Division of Emergency Management and the Kentucky Fire Commission.
“We must protect and support our rescue squad members and ensure they have access to treatment for post-traumatic stress disorder and other mental health needs,” Wesley added. “Our rescue squads members go into dangerous situations so our citizens don’t have, and we must support them in the aftermath.”
To keep track of HB 486 during the 2026 Regular Session, please visit legislature.ky.gov.
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