The Florida First Responder and Florida Public Safety Act aims to enhance public safety by establishing a Counterterrorism/Counterintelligence Unit within the Department of Law Enforcement and revising definitions related to first responders. The bill prohibits employment discrimination against first responders, allowing civil actions for denied promotions, and mandates the creation of a unified 911 system for all county-level first responder agencies by July 1, 2029. This consolidation prohibits municipalities from opting out and requires integration of 911 operations under the sheriff's office, along with the formation of an executive board in each county to oversee unified call centers. Additionally, the bill introduces provisions for dispatching the closest unit to emergencies, revises missing persons reporting requirements, and creates the Florida Medal of Valor and Blue/Red Heart Medal to honor first responders.

Furthermore, the bill proposes the establishment of a Florida Department of Public Safety, consolidating various law enforcement agencies to improve crime-fighting capabilities and efficiency. This new department will be administered by a director appointed by the Governor and will include divisions for administration, patrol, investigations, and special operations, while integrating the Capitol Police. A task force will be created to oversee the consolidation and report on its progress, with a deadline set for July 1, 2026. The act is set to take effect on July 1, 2025, and includes provisions for funding based on population and the creation of a preferred price list for essential equipment by the Department of Law Enforcement.

Statutes affected:
S 1554 Filed: 365.171, 937.022, 943.131