As of January 1, 2019, a new law has gone into effect that may drastically change the way work-related PTSD claims are handled in Minnesota. For PTSD injuries that occur on or after January 1, 2019, there is now a presumption for first responders that their PTSD is work-related. A first responder’s PTSD still must meet the criteria set forth in the DSM-V and be diagnosed by a licensed psychologist or psychiatrist.

Earlier this week, Ron Meuser, Founder of Meuser Law Office, P.A., was invited to speak at the gathering hosted by the Minnesota Law Enforcement Labor Services (LELS) held at the Clay County Enforcement Center in Moorhead, Minnesota. The members enjoyed tasty pizza while learning important union updates from representatives for LELS as well as MMPOA and a presentation from Ron Meuser, an attorney whose practice concentrates in Minnesota workers’ compensation and PERA disability claims.

The Minnesota Law Enforcement Labor Services (LELS), #194 Rochester, recently held their annual meeting and invited Ron Meuser, Founder of Meuser Law Office, P.A., to give a presentation to its member group which consists of approximately 125 officers and sergeants.

The Southwest Journal, a local newspaper in Southwest Minneapolis, recently reported on the development of a mindfulness and wellness program aimed at making Minneapolis cops “more compassionate” in response to the highly publicized shooting death of Minneapolis resident Justine Ruszczyk Damond. According to the article “before the end of the year, all 888 MPD officers will be required to take a three-hour training session designed to improve their health, wellness and sense of compassion”. When practiced regularly, mindfulness can be an effective tool with a lasting impact. The city is taking a step in the right direction by introducing mindfulness training and exercise, but should go a step further by incorporating it in an overall treatment plan to increase its effectiveness.