Bill > S0872

This bill modifies regulations for the Division of State Fire Marshal by requiring the division to accept firefighter training and certification from other jurisdictions if those requirements are substantially equivalent or more stringent than Florida's current standards. The bill introduces a new term "basis certificate" to describe the training requirements from another jurisdiction used to meet Florida's certification standards. Additionally, the bill requires the division to establish rules prohibiting firefighter employers from requiring employees to take home contaminated personal protective equipment or firefighting gear, and to develop best practices for handling such contaminated equipment. Before denying a firefighter certificate, the division must first make a finding that the basis certificate from another jurisdiction is insufficient or not substantially equivalent to Florida's requirements. The changes aim to provide more flexibility in firefighter certification and improve workplace safety standards for firefighters by addressing potential health risks associated with contaminated protective gear. The bill is set to take effect on July 1, 2026.

https://www.flsenate.gov/Session/Bill/2026/872