The bill aims to enhance firefighter health and safety by amending several sections of the Florida Statutes. It revises the legislative intent in section 633.506 to emphasize the importance of reducing occupational illnesses, fatalities, and the frequency of work-related injuries among firefighters. The Division of State Fire Marshal is tasked with adopting rules to improve workplace safety, including the requirement for firefighter employers to provide gear free from chemical hazards and to implement work schedules that do not exceed 42 hours per week. Additionally, the bill mandates the adoption of mental health best practices and cancer prevention strategies for firefighter employers.

Further amendments include provisions for identifying firefighter employers with high rates of work-related injuries and suicides, conducting safety inspections, and requiring corrective action plans. The bill also outlines penalties for non-compliance with safety regulations, including administrative fines and civil penalties. The effective date for the implementation of these changes is set for July 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
H 929 Filed: 633.506, 633.526