In response to a recent wave of traumatic incidents involving law enforcement, the New York State Troopers Police Benevolent Association (PBA) is urging lawmakers to adopt new legislation that offers paid leave to Troopers after critical incidents. The bill targets mental health concerns, PTSD, and the growing rate of early retirements.
Sen. Jeremy Cooney and Assemblymember Patrick Burke sponsored the proposal (S2681/A6452), which would create a policy for the New York State Police. The policy would give Troopers up to 30 days of paid leave after a use-of-force incident that results in death or serious injury. Troopers indirectly involved would receive up to 15 days.
Police officers face higher PTSD risk
The National Institutes of Health estimates PTSD rates among police officers at 19%, nearly twice the national average. A 2023 FBI study found that officers experience an average of 178 traumatic incidents during their careers.
Mental health organizations strongly back the legislation. Glenn Liebman, CEO of the Mental Health Association in New York State, said the leave would give Troopers critical time to heal in a supportive environment. NAMI New York State also voiced support, citing the long-term mental health benefits of recovery time.
Early retirements signal growing strain
Since 2006, the number of annual retirements among State Police has increased by 520%. In 2024 alone, 470 Troopers and senior investigators retired. The average retirement age has dropped to 49, with just 23 years of service—both the lowest in nearly two decades. Meanwhile, recruitment lags. Only 176 new Troopers graduated this year, and the state reduced academy classes from four to two annually.
Union leaders say many officers feel pressure to return to duty too soon, risking both their safety and the public’s.
Troopers share personal stories
Trooper Richard K. Albert, who was shot during a traffic stop in 2023, described the intense psychological toll that followed. “Shock, disbelief, anxiety, fear, depression, PTSD—these are just some of the effects. First responders need time to recover. Only they know when they’re truly ready to return.”
New York could set national example
If passed, New York’s policy would be among the most comprehensive in the nation. Only Kentucky and Texas currently have critical incident leave standards, and most policies vary by department.
The push for reform follows four serious incidents in just three days in April, including exchanges of gunfire in Saratoga and Sullivan counties and a domestic dispute in Orange County involving an armed suspect.
Supporters say the legislation will not only protect Troopers’ mental health but also ensure safer communities by helping officers return to duty fully prepared.
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