Governor Ron DeSantis today affirmed Florida’s unwavering commitment to its firefighters, signing House Bill 929 into law at the 81st Annual Convention of the Florida Professional Firefighters. The legislation significantly expands health and safety protections for the state’s brave first responders, addressing critical issues ranging from occupational diseases to mental health.
Speaking in Palm Beach Gardens, Governor DeSantis underscored the inherent dangers faced by firefighters. “Firefighters put their lives on the line to save others,” said Governor DeSantis. “The heroic work takes a physical and mental toll. HB 929 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.”
House Bill 929 updates the Florida Firefighters Occupational Safety and Health Act, broadening its scope to encompass occupational diseases and, notably, suicide prevention.
READ: Florida Sheriff Ousted: DeSantis Suspends Osceola’s Top Cop Amid Racketeering Charges
The bill mandates that the Department of Financial Services’ Division of the State Fire Marshal adopt clear rules aimed at mitigating various health risks, including the often-overlooked mental health impacts and the persistent threat of exposure to toxic substances.
Key provisions of the new law include:
- Hazard-Free Gear: Fire departments will now be required to purchase gear free of hazardous chemicals as soon as such equipment becomes commercially available.
- Transparency in Gear Composition: Employers must notify firefighters if their current gear contains toxic substances, ensuring informed awareness.
- Mental Health Monitoring and Prevention: The Division of the State Fire Marshal is tasked with monitoring mental health impacts, including suicide risks, and establishing comprehensive prevention protocols.
- Burnout Reduction: To combat burnout, standard firefighter shifts will be limited to 42 hours per week.
This legislative action builds upon Governor DeSantis’s consistent efforts to support Florida’s first responders. Since taking office, the Governor has prioritized providing essential resources, protections, and recognition.
In 2019, he signed legislation granting vital cancer benefits to firefighters. Following Hurricane Ian, $2 million in disaster relief funding was allocated specifically for first responders. Just last month, the Governor signed legislation expanding compensation for those injured during official training.
READ: DeSantis Fights Back Against “Politically Motivated Lawfare” Amid Hope Florida Foundation Probe
Furthermore, his most recent budget recommendations included over $118 million to raise first responder pay, a significant portion of which includes a 25% raise for state-employed firefighters.
House Bill 929 is expected to have a profound impact on the daily lives and long-term health of Florida’s firefighting community, reinforcing the state’s dedication to those who dedicate their lives to protecting others.
Please make a small donation to the Tampa Free Press to help sustain independent journalism. Your contribution enables us to continue delivering high-quality, local, and national news coverage.
Connect with us: Follow the Tampa Free Press on Facebook and Twitter for breaking news and updates.
Sign up: Subscribe to our free newsletter for a curated selection of top stories delivered straight to your inbox.
