By Laura French
CLEVELAND — Cleveland EMS providers will now be covered for PTSD and receive about $3.7 million in back pay following the passing of a new EMS contract, which comes after a lengthy legal battle between union officials and the city.
The newly-approved contract includes paid leave for mental health trauma and more competitive wages, along with back pay, according to 19 News. CARE Local 1975 has been negotiating the contract since 2016.
City officials have repeatedly challenged the inclusion of paid time off for PTSD in court, spurring protests, including a sit-in, picket parade and email campaign held in January. The city has argued that employees might abuse the leave system.
The contract outlines circumstances that can qualify EMS providers to receive time off for mental health trauma, including calls involving loved ones or coworkers, calls involving children and multiple-casualty incidents.
Local 1975 President Paul Melhuish says he believes the new contract may be one of the first in the U.S. to include specific coverage for PTSD.