Washington State’s workers’ compensation system covers Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) if proven work-related. In 2018, the Legislature granted presumptive PTSD coverage to public safety personnel (firefighters and law enforcement). Now, lawmakers are considering further expansion to include correctional officers (HB 1070/SB 5043) and county coroners (HB 1002) in the 2025 session.
Financial Impact: Expanding presumption-based coverage without assessing long-term financial and operational consequences threatens the system’s stability. Since 2018, this expansion has strained the workers’ comp system:
- Between 2019–2024, 21% of claims resulted in permanent total disability, costing $1.05 million per case.
- 72% of PTSD claims were compensable, averaging $650,000 each.
Cost Shifting Concerns: The financial burden is disproportionately affecting employers. For the public safety risk class, the indicated rate increase was 30%, but L&I capped it at 15%, using contingency reserves. This effectively shifts costs to other employers and industries, creating an unsustainable financial model.
A Sustainable Approach: Instead of continually broadening PTSD presumptions, policymakers should prioritize:
- Preventive mental health treatments to address issues before they escalate.
- Return-to-work strategies to reduce premature total disability and retain skilled professionals.
WR is working with legislators, L&I, and stakeholders to advocate for a holistic approach that prevents further cost shifting and ensures a financially sustainable system.
