Committee advances workers’ comp presumption for police officers including PTSD

House Bill 132 (amended) would add a presumption to the New Mexico workers’ compensation act that certain medical conditions suffered by police officers are occupationally related. Sponsor remarks noted the bill mirrors provisions previously enacted for firefighters and would ease the burden on officers who must now prove a causal link to get benefits.

Rep. Borrego introduced the bill and named expert witnesses including Dr. Justin Hazen and psychologist Dr. Nicole Duronzo. Testimony from union and law-enforcement representatives (AFSCME, state police) supported the measure for recruitment, retention and quicker access to care. The Office of the Superintendent of Insurance’s law-enforcement division voiced support as well.

The committee discussed amendment details: PTSD was reinstated on amendment; hearing loss definitions were clarified; a prior blanket presumption for back pain was removed but members were told officers can still file claims and physicians may attest that back pain is occupationally caused by the duty belt. Sponsors said the bill preserves the ability for insurers and employers to rebut claims where appropriate.

Committee members expressed broad support and the chair announced a due pass on the amended bill.

What happens next: The due-pass recommendation advances HB132; the final statutory language will control which conditions are presumed occupational and the scope for employer rebuttal.