Assemblyman Angelo Santabarbara announced today the passage of his bill (A03549) in the New York State Assembly — a major step toward ensuring mental health parity for all first responders. The legislation extends PTSD-related benefits and services to emergency dispatchers and correction officers, putting them on equal footing with police officers and firefighters.

“First responders run toward danger so others can be safe — and that includes the emergency dispatchers who answer the call and the correction officers who work tirelessly to maintain safety in our correctional facilities,” said Assemblyman Angelo Santabarbara. “These are high-stress, high-risk roles that take a serious toll on mental health, yet these professionals have been left behind when it comes to access to PTSD care. This bill finally brings long-overdue fairness.”

Under the new legislation, municipalities and collective bargaining agreements must ensure that emergency dispatchers and correction officers have access to the same PTSD-related services and benefits available to police and fire personnel. This includes diagnosis, treatment, and support services provided under the same policies and procedures.

“These men and women are essential to the fabric of public safety,” Assemblyman Santabarbara added. “This bill is about fairness, recognition, and doing what’s right for those who serve our communities under incredible pressure every day.”