On the First Coast this week, Gov. Ron DeSantis held an event with the Jacksonville Fire and Rescue Department to showcase his support for $1,000 bonuses to first responders.
“These recognition payments were a part of the Freedom First Budget signed by the governor earlier this year, in addition to historic legislation that supports Florida’s law enforcement and first responders. Eligible recipients of the first responder recognition bonus payments are police officers, sheriff’s deputies, paramedics, emergency medical technicians (EMTs), and firefighters employed by local governments throughout the state,” the governor’s office noted.
“Florida supports our first responders because these men and women put on their uniforms every day to serve and protect,” said DeSantis. “These bonuses are a token of our appreciation for the work that they do and the sacrifices they make to keep Florida safe. I am happy to deliver the bonuses for a second year in a row!”
“We are proud to support Governor DeSantis in recognizing Florida’s hardworking first responders,” said Florida Department of Economic Opportunity (DEO) Sec. Dane Eagle. “Today, we honor their sacrifices and express our sincere appreciation for the heroism of these men and women who go above and beyond to serve their communities.”
DEO is managing the one-time bonuses, which are up to $1,000 after taxes, for first responders who worked for local governments on May 1.
“Florida’s firefighters and first responders are dedicated to protecting our communities and keeping Floridians safe,” said state Chief Financial Officer Jimmy Patronis. “While others seek shelter or run for safety, these brave heroes run towards danger and place their lives on the line to save others. Thank you to Governor Ron DeSantis for his unwavering support of these outstanding men and women. As Florida’s State Fire Marshal, I am proud to have the opportunity to give back to our first responders in appreciation for everything they do for Floridians.”
DeSantis backed similar $1,000 bonuses to around 175,000 first responders across the Sunshine State last year.
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