On March 31, Wisconsin Assembly Bill 651 was signed into law, expanding PTSD‑only workers’ compensation claim eligibility for certain first responders and adopting a broader package of agreed‑upon reforms. The bill takes effect April 1, 2026.

Key provisions of the bill include:

• Expanded PTSD‑only eligibility for first responders, including part‑time and volunteer firefighters and emergency medical responders
• Updates to claims processing, hearings, and dispute resolution procedures
• Increased permanent partial disability (PPD) benefit maximums and expanded supplemental benefits for older injury dates
• Clarification that the 12‑year occupational disease filing deadline cannot be indefinitely tolled
• Elimination of stacked PPD ratings for repeat surgeries on the same body part
• Enhanced penalties and fraud‑reporting requirements for uninsured or noncompliant employers