Florida Enacts Sweeping Fire Fighter Health and Safety Reforms
New legislation signed at the state fire fighter convention addresses mental health, toxic gear, and work conditions with broad bipartisan support.
- By Stasia DeMarco
- Jun 13, 2025
Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis signed House Bill 929 into law Friday after addressing the 81st Annual Florida Professional Firefighters (FPF) Convention, ushering in sweeping reforms to improve fire fighter mental health, remove toxic chemicals from gear, and modernize safety protocols.
Billed as the most significant advancement in fire fighter health and safety policy in a generation, the bipartisan legislation passed unanimously in both the Florida House (115-0) and Senate (37-0). H.B. 929 was co-sponsored by Reps. Danny Alvarez Sr. and Erika Booth, with Sen. Nick DiCeglie guiding the measure through the upper chamber.
The new law mandates improved suicide data collection, encourages sustainable shift schedules, and requires turnout gear that exceeds current NFPA safety standards by eliminating PFAS—hazardous “forever chemicals” linked to cancer—from protective clothing.
“This comprehensive legislation modernizes our state’s fire fighter OSHA statute,” said FPF President Wayne ‘Bernie’ Bernoska. “It reflects our commitment to mental wellness, cancer prevention, and a safer working environment.”
DeSantis commended fire fighters for their daily sacrifices, calling them “hometown heroes.”
“Fire fighters put their lives on the line to save others,” the governor said. “Their heroic work takes a physical and mental toll. H.B. 929 recognizes the risks and strengthens Florida’s commitment to their well-being.”
The law received praise from fire service leaders across the country. “Securing unanimous support for these critical reforms is a testament to the outstanding work President Bernoska and his members are doing in Tallahassee and across the state,” said Walter Dix, IAFF 12th District Vice President.
Edward Kelly, General President of the International Association of Fire Fighters (IAFF), added: “This new legislation will make a difference in the lives of every Floridian and the fire fighters they count on.”
About the Author
Stasia DeMarco is the Content Editor for OH&S.