Governor DeSantis delivers for first responders with COLA restoration in state budget

Press release from Florida Professional Firefighters

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. – Governor Ron DeSantis has signed the state budget for fiscal year 2026-27, restoring a meaningful cost-of-living adjustment (COLA) to retirement for first responders who have dedicated their careers to serving Florida communities.

Florida’s first responders are classified as Special Risk members of the Florida Retirement System (FRS) because of the physically demanding and high-risk nature of their work. A COLA helps retirement benefit payments keep pace with rising costs of goods and services over time.

During Special Session, the Florida Legislature passed a measure effective July 1, 2026, to provide eligible Special Risk class members retired for at least five years an annual cost-of-living increase of no less than 1.5%.

“Strong public safety depends on attracting and retaining dedicated professionals who know their service will be valued both during their careers and in retirement. Restoring the cost-of-living adjustment
strengthens that commitment while recognizing the sacrifices made by Florida’s firefighters, paramedics, and law enforcement officers throughout their careers,” said Wayne “Bernie” Bernoska, president of Florida Professional Firefighters. “We are grateful for the leadership of the Florida Senate and Florida House for making this legislation a priority and to Governor Ron DeSantis for signing it into law. This is a meaningful investment in the men and women who have dedicated their careers to protecting Florida today and into the future.”

This milestone is the result of more than 15 years of persistent advocacy by Florida’s first responder community and its legislative champions. Sen. Joe Gruters (R-Sarasota) was among the first to champion COLA restoration. Sen. Ed Hooper (R-Clearwater), a firefighter himself, with his consistent advocacy for this legislation, served as the linchpin for securing this important benefit for first responders in Florida. Sen. Debbie Mayfield (R- Melbourne), Rep. Demi Busatta (R-Miami-Dade), Rep. Danny Alvarez (R-Hillsborough), Rep. Omar Blanco (R-Miami), and the late Rep. Joe Casello (D-Boynton Beach), a former Massachusetts firefighter, were also steadfast champions of the effort.

The reinstatement will benefit more than 125,000 first responders statewide, including approximately 75,000 active Special Risk FRS members. 

Beyond direct financial relief for retirees, the restored COLA is expected to serve as a meaningful workforce recruitment tool for fire departments and public safety agencies across the state. Competitive retirement benefits are a key factor in attracting new candidates to public safety careers and retaining experienced professionals.

With the Governor’s signature, Florida’s 2026-27 state budget takes effect July 1, 2026.