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Firefighters press for NFPA‑style physicals and three‑day non‑punitive post‑incident leave in contract talks
Summary
In bargaining, firefighters proposed biannual NFPA‑style detailed physicals (estimated $300–$400 incremental cost) and a non‑punitive three‑working‑day post‑incident leave tied to Texas Senate Bill 1359 language and modeled on police contract provisions; the city said it supports mental‑health steps and will review details.
Union negotiators presented two health‑and‑safety items in the bargaining session: a more detailed NFPA‑style physical on a biannual schedule and a comprehensive post‑incident mental‑health support program with limited non‑punitive leave.
On physicals, the association said Appendix B would add a wellness scan/detailed exam (described as NFPA 1582‑compliant) and proposed moving from the current annual/basic physical to a biannual, more detailed exam. Presenters estimated the city currently pays an incremental $300–$400 for additional exam elements and asked the city to cover the cost of the proposed biannual detailed exam.
On mental health, the association proposed a program modeled on police contract language and referenced Texas Senate Bill 1359. The proposal would provide three working days (a shift‑and‑a‑half) of non‑punitive post‑incident leave, with extensions requiring documented approval from a healthcare professional and chief’s review; the contract language also would protect personnel from triggering immediate fitness‑for‑duty consequences when they use the leave.
The mayor expressed support for mental‑health measures, saying he is “all for it” while stressing safeguards to prevent abuse. Union and city agree to review implementation details, including criteria for approving leave and mechanisms to prevent misuse. The proposals will be reviewed by city staff and returned to the bargaining table in the next session.
