Representative Booth introduces bill to improve firefighter health and safety in Florida

The Florida House Insurance & Banking Subcommittee convened on April 3, 2025, to discuss several key pieces of legislation, with a primary focus on House Bill 929, aimed at enhancing the health and safety of firefighters across the state.

Representative Booth introduced House Bill 929, which seeks to update Florida's OSHA state statute specifically for firefighters. The bill includes several critical provisions designed to improve workplace safety and mental health support. A notable requirement mandates fire departments to report firefighter suicides, which is expected to enhance tracking and prevention efforts related to mental health challenges within the profession. This reporting is akin to existing protocols for tracking cancer and PTSD cases among firefighters.

Additionally, the bill directs the Chief Financial Officer and the State Fire Marshal to establish mental health best practices that focus on resiliency, stress management, and peer support. It also emphasizes the importance of informing firefighters about potential chemical hazards associated with their protective gear and encourages the adoption of safer alternatives as they become available. Another significant aspect of the bill is the promotion of healthier work schedules, limiting regular hours to 42 per week to mitigate physical and mental strain on firefighters.

During the meeting, an amendment to the bill was presented, clarifying the requirements for replacing firefighter gear with less toxic options. This amendment specifies that new purchases must adhere to these standards and allows for a phased replacement of existing gear.

Public testimony was provided by representatives from the Florida Professional Firefighters, who expressed strong support for the bill, highlighting its potential positive impact on the fire service. Several committee members also voiced their appreciation for the bill, emphasizing the importance of addressing the mental health and safety of firefighters, who face significant risks in their line of work.

The committee ultimately voted in favor of the bill, which will now move forward in the legislative process. This legislation represents a significant step toward improving the working conditions and overall well-being of Florida's firefighters, acknowledging the unique challenges they face in their profession.