Governor Ron DeSantis signed legislation to strengthen health and safety protections for Florida firefighters.
Governor DeSantis delivered remarks at the 81st Annual Convention of the Florida Professional Firefighters in Palm Beach Gardens, where he signed House Bill 929, legislation that enhances Florida’s commitment to the health and safety of its firefighters.
“Firefighters put their lives on the line to save others,” said Republican Governor DeSantis. “The heroic work takes a physical and mental toll. HB929 recognizes the risks and strengthens Florida’s commitment to the well-being of our firefighters, and I was proud to sign it alongside some of state’s hometown heroes today.”
HB 929 updates the Florida Firefighters Occupational Safety and Health Act by expanding its scope to include occupational diseases and suicide prevention. The bill directs the Department of Financial Services’ Division of the State Fire Marshal to adopt clear rules to mitigate health risks, including mental health impacts and exposure to toxic substances.
Under the new law:
- Fire departments must purchase gear free of hazardous chemicals once it becomes commercially available.
- Employers must notify firefighters if current gear contains toxic substances.
- The Division is required to monitor mental health impacts, including suicide risks, and establish prevention protocols.
- Standard firefighter shifts will be limited to 42 hours per week to reduce burnout.
Since taking office, Governor DeSantis has made it a priority to ensure first responders have the resources, protections, and recognition they deserve. In 2019, he signed legislation granting cancer benefits to firefighters. He provided $2 million in disaster relief funding for first responders after Hurricane Ian. Last month, he signed legislation expanding compensation for those injured during official training. His most recent budget recommended more than $118 million to raise first responder pay, including a 25% raise for state-employed firefighters.
