Committee approves amendment to extend firefighter death benefit for one year after separation

TALLAHASSEE — The House Budget Committee voted to report House Bill 813 favorably after adopting an amendment that narrows the bill to a one‑year survivor death benefit for firefighters who separate from employment after a terminal cancer diagnosis.

Sponsor Rep. Posada said the bill clarifies an existing 2019 firefighter cancer law so that families of firefighters who retire or separate to spend their final days at home would remain eligible for a death benefit for up to one year after separation. “This bill clarifies that they can receive that death benefit up to a year after that retirement,” the sponsor said.

Opponents said the amendment weakened protections. Dr. Elio Perez, a lieutenant with Metro Dade Fire Rescue, testified the amendment removes key protections and cited a case of a firefighter who died 428 days after retirement; he said that person would not be covered under the one‑year cap. “These amendments… add one year limit on death benefits,” he said, calling the change a near rollback of earlier protections.

Supporters including representatives of the Florida Professional Firefighters argued the language provides clarity and needed security for members and families. Wayne Birnie Bernasco with the Florida Professional Firefighters thanked the sponsor and urged passage, saying the change helps members plan for end‑of‑life scenarios. The sponsor told members the bill contemplates separation from employment, not negotiated contract limits, and that union presidents may continue to negotiate beyond the one‑year period in collective bargaining.

After public testimony and debate, the committee adopted the amendment and voted to report the bill favorably.

What happens next: The committee directed the clerk to report CS for HB 813 favorably; the bill will proceed to further House consideration.