DeSantis Champions Firefighter Health: New Bill Enhances Safety Measures

Palm Beach Gardens, Florida, USA - On June 5, 2025, Governor Ron DeSantis made a significant move to bolster health and safety protections for Florida’s firefighters. Signing the new legislation, known as HB 929, at the 81st Annual Convention of the Florida Professional Firefighters, the governor highlighted the importance of improving conditions for those who risk their lives daily.

This newly inked bill updates the Florida Firefighters Occupational Safety and Health Act and introduces several crucial measures aimed at protecting firefighters from occupational illnesses, particularly cancer. Among the key provisions, the legislation extends protections against the rising threat of cancer, enhances suicide prevention efforts, and mandates that the Division of the State Fire Marshal develop rules to mitigate health risks associated with toxic exposure and mental health challenges.

Key Provisions of the Legislation

Under the new law, fire departments are required to prioritize the purchase of protective gear that is free of hazardous chemicals when available. They must also inform firefighters about any toxic substances within their current equipment, a move that aligns with recent findings. The World Health Organization has classified firefighting as a Group 1 carcinogen, underlining the elevated cancer risk that firefighters face.

In addition, the bill mandates that fire departments actively monitor mental health concerns and develop prevention programs to address suicide risks. Moreover, to combat burnout—a growing issue in the firefighting community—the legislation restricts firefighter shifts to a maximum of 42 hours per week.

This recent legislation is part of a broader trend wherein Governor DeSantis has shown a sustained commitment to firefighter welfare. His administration previously approved cancer coverage benefits in 2019 and directed $2 million in disaster relief for first responders post-Hurricane Ian. Just last month, he signed a bill providing expanded injury compensation for firefighters during training.

Funding and Future Outlook

To support these initiatives, the proposed budget also allocates over $118 million aimed at boosting first responder pay, with plans for a 25% raise for state-employed firefighters. This commitment reflects a comprehensive approach to ensuring that Florida’s firefighters receive the respect and resources they rightly deserve.

Beyond Florida, national trends show that firefighting poses serious health risks, notably from cardiovascular disease and mental health challenges. Heart attacks account for 45-50% of firefighter deaths in the line of duty, as discussed in the findings published by the National Institutes of Health, where overexertion during firefighting operations has been identified as a principal risk factor. Maintaining cardiovascular health through proper exercise and diet has become essential in mitigating these dangers.

The National Volunteer Fire Council supports both the National Firefighter Registry for Cancer and the Honoring Our Fallen Heroes Act to provide better resources and economic supports for firefighters facing cancer due to service-related exposure. By enhancing legislative measures, these initiatives aim to ensure that firefighters are recognized for their sacrifice and provided with necessary support.

Addressing Mental Health Concerns

Mental health is another critical aspect tackled by the new legislation. Firefighters have a significantly higher risk of suicide compared to the general population, with nearly half reporting experiences of suicidal thoughts. The cumulative stress of the job can lead to maladaptive behaviors, making mental health support essential in maintaining the resilience of these individuals.

As this legislation unfolds, it promises to not only enhance physical safety but also create a framework for a healthier, more supportive environment for firefighters across Florida. As we move forward, it will be vital to observe how these protective measures influence the health outcomes of our brave first responders.

For anyone seeking more information on the issues surrounding firefighter health and the new legislation, Local 10 News provides a comprehensive overview, while Firefighter Nation dives deeper into the health risks and legislative measures being put in place across the country. Additionally, for insights into related health risks and countermeasures, the work published by the National Institutes of Health is invaluable.