Rep. Mathews Applauds Signing of Legislation Supporting Ohio's First Responders

State Representative Ty Mathews (R-Findlay) today announced that Governor Mike DeWine signed a bill that will provide $40 million in targeted funding toward treatment programming for first responders experiencing a Post-Traumatic Stress Injury.

"I'm honored to have helped lead the effort behind Ohio's historic PTSI law," said Mathews. "Thanks to our work, tens of millions of dollars are now dedicated to mental health treatment for our firefighters, police, and EMS. This means real wages, real care, and real long-term support for those who put their lives on the line every day. It's a victory for our first responders and their families."¿

More specifically, the provision transfers $40 million in seed funding from the GRF to for the Post-Traumatic Stress Fund. The state's Post-Traumatic Stress Fund will cover treatment for peace officers, firefighters, and EMS personnel who are need of care.

The provision was included in House Bill 184, legislation that sets various limitations on intercollegiate athlete contracts, in addition to including a number of clarifying provisions as related to the state operating budget.

House Bill 184 will go into effect March 18, 2026.