The New Hampshire Legislature has introduced House Bill 586, aimed at establishing an employee assistance program (EAP) specifically for first responders in small towns. Introduced on January 23, 2025, the bill seeks to address the mental health needs of first responders, particularly those serving in communities with volunteer fire departments or fewer than five full-time paid responders.

The bill mandates that the Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) ensure these first responders are enrolled in the EAP, which will provide comprehensive support services, including assistance for post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and post-traumatic stress (PTS). Additionally, the DHHS is tasked with developing guidelines for the administration of the fund, which includes enrollment processes and service provision. An annual report detailing fund usage, the number of first responders served, and program outcomes will also be submitted to the legislature.

To support this initiative, the bill appropriates $150,000 for the biennium ending June 30, 2027. This funding is intended to enhance mental health support for first responders in smaller communities, which often lack the resources available in larger municipalities. The governor will have the authority to draw from the state treasury to allocate these funds.

While the bill has garnered attention for its focus on mental health support, it has also faced scrutiny regarding its fiscal implications. The Office of Legislative Budget Assistant has noted that it is unable to complete a fiscal note for the bill pending further information from the DHHS. This uncertainty raises questions about the long-term sustainability of the program and its potential impact on the state budget.

As the bill progresses through the legislative process, it highlights a growing recognition of the mental health challenges faced by first responders, particularly in smaller communities. If passed, House Bill 586 could set a precedent for similar initiatives across the country, emphasizing the importance of mental health resources for those who serve on the front lines. The bill is set to take effect on July 1, 2025, pending legislative approval.