Gov. DeSantis signs bill enhancing health, safety protections for Florida firefighters

PALM BEACH GARDENS, Fla. – Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis signed a bill on Thursday that aims to enhance health and safety protections for firefighters.

DeSantis signed the bill after delivering remarks at the 81st Annual Convention of the Florida Professional Firefighters in Palm Beach Gardens on Thursday morning.

“Firefighters put their lives on the line to save others,” DeSantis said. “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 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.