Essex MPP Taras Natyshak is calling it a step in the right direction.
His bill to expand post-traumatic stress disorder coverage for all first responders passed second reading in the legislature on Thursday.
Natyshak says a few years ago some first responders were left out of Bill 163 which provides PTSD coverage through WSIB benefits for those workers who face violence and trauma at work.
He says his bill (Bill 151) includes nurses, police service employees as well as probation and parole officers.
Natyshak says first responders put their lives on the line each and every day.
"We ask our first responders to do and to see things we cannot do and see ourselves and in doing that job," says Natyshak. "They are vulnerable and they're exposed to some horrific things that definitely affect them in different ways."
Proud that our bill #151 extending PTSD coverage to nurses, probation and parole and police services officers passed today. Thanks to all pic.twitter.com/qJLDtEtikE
— Taras Natyshak (@TarasNatyshak) September 14, 2017
Bill 163 only included fire fighters, paramedics and police for the PTSD coverage.
Natyshak's bill will now go to committee for approval.