The Newtown Police officer who hasn't returned to work since the Sandy Hook Elementary School massacre because of post-traumatic stress disorder is asking lawmakers to expand Connecticut's worker's compensation law to cover the condition.
Thomas Bean said Tuesday he's experienced depression, anxiety and suicidal thoughts since responding to the Dec. 14, 2012, mass shooting and cannot return to work in law enforcement.
Bean is currently receiving about half his pay through Newtown's long-term disability insurance plan. That policy is due to end in June 2015.
A bill before the Public Safety and Security Committeewould provide worker's compensation coverage to state or municipal employees diagnosed with PTSD after witnessing a traumatic event or its aftermath, in connection with their job.
Municipalities claim the bill would be too expensive.
Copyright 2014 The Associated Press. All rights reserved.
