Witnesses Back H.270 to Protect Peer-to-Peer Confidentiality for First Responders, Urge Language Fixes

Montpelier — Witnesses offered broad support on Jan. 14 for H.270, a bill that would make communications between trained peer supporters and first responders confidential, but pressed lawmakers to refine the bill’s language and scope before advancing it.

Mark McDonough, battalion chief of the Burlington Fire Department and vice chair of the Emergency Service Provider Wellness Commission, told the committee the commission “supports the intent of the bill” but has “significant concerns with some of the language used.” McDonough said confidentiality is critical because “peer support programs are recognized as having the lowest barrier for seeking help,” and that legal protections would reduce stigma and encourage people to seek assistance.

The witnesses described peer supporters as trained, empathetic listeners who help colleagues access resources, not clinicians. Several speakers objected to the draft bill’s use of the word “counseling” to describe peer interactions, saying it blurs the line…