In a significant legislative development for first responders across the nation, Senator Eric Schmitt (R-MO) introduced S.1247, officially titled the “Public Safety Officer Free Speech Act,” on April 2, 2025.
This landmark bill aims to protect firefighters, emergency medical service providers, and law enforcement officers from workplace retaliation when they speak out about job-related safety concerns. This is coming at a critical time: over the past months, a plethora of cases have seen outspoken first responders facing dire consequences from their superiors or the City Councils. Therefore, the need for stronger free speech protections feels more urgent than ever.
What Is the Public Safety Officer Free Speech Act?
The Public Safety Officer Free Speech Act (S.1247) serves a clear purpose: it ensures that first responders can exercise their First Amendment rights without fear of punishment when addressing critical workplace and public safety issues.
From its introduction, the bill garnered strong bipartisan support. It was first presented in the Senate by Senator Eric Schmitt and in the House by Representatives Steve Cohen (D-TN) and Jefferson Van Drew (R-NJ).
The International Association of Fire Fighters (IAFF) has thrown its full weight behind this legislation. IAFF General President Edward Kelly emphasized the importance of this bill, stating: “Far too often, firefighters are disciplined for speaking up about dangerous working conditions, low staffing levels, and burdensome administrative rules jeopardizing public safety in their communities.”
At its core, the bill creates a legal pathway for public safety officers to bring action against employers if they’re disciplined for expressing personal opinions, whether it’s public safety services, working conditions, employer policies, or other job-related concerns.
Why Free Speech Matters for First Responders
Recent events highlight exactly why this legislation is so urgently needed. The IAFF reported that in Charleston, a Local 61 member faced disciplinary action after raising concerns about exposed mold and excessive heat at his station. The situation escalated to the point where Local 61 is now suing the city in federal court for violating its members’ First Amendment rights.
This is not an isolated incident. Similar cases have emerged in Port Houston (Texas), Tampa (Florida), and other states, where first responders have had their constitutional rights violated by employers. These situations have forced local organizations to dedicate substantial resources to defending their members through lengthy legal battles.
When first responders cannot speak freely about safety concerns, it creates a dangerous culture of silence in professions where clear communication about hazards can mean the difference between life and death. By empowering transparency through legal protections, S.1247 has the potential to save the lives of first responders themselves and the general public alike.
Where the Bill Stands Now
Following its introduction on April 2, 2025, S.1247 was read twice and referred to the Committee on Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions. The House version of the bill is also making its way through the legislative process with bipartisan sponsorship.
The legislation provides significant legal remedies for affected first responders, including actual damages, compensatory damages, punitive damages, injunctive relief, and attorneys’ fees and costs for prevailing plaintiffs. Notably, the bill includes reasonable limitations to ensure that the free speech protections do not interfere with on-duty responsibilities or confidentiality requirements.
This bill represents a broader movement toward greater accountability and safety in first responder workplaces, with growing recognition that protecting those who speak out about unsafe conditions benefits everyone.
Where Do We Stand?
The Firefighters and EMS Fund strongly supports the Public Safety Officer Free Speech Act. We believe that no public safety professional should face retaliation for identifying safety hazards, inadequate staffing, or dangerous conditions that put both first responders and the public at risk.
The ability to speak freely about workplace safety concerns aligns perfectly with our organization’s commitment to transparency, accountability, and the highest public safety standards. IAFF General Counsel Peter Leff captured this sentiment perfectly, noting that this bill “will provide stronger, more responsive fire and police departments that are better able to assist the communities they serve.”
The Time for Action is Now
The Public Safety Officer Free Speech Act represents a crucial step forward in protecting those who protect us. But until it becomes the law of the land, all first responders and their supporters should follow S.1247’s progress closely and ensure the momentum doesn’t die.
This entails positioning it as a hot discussion topic, both at work gatherings and social media circles, and contacting your local representatives about it. And if you or someone you know has faced retaliation for speaking up about safety concerns, share your story.
The Firefighters and EMS Fund will continue to advocate for the rights and well-being of all public safety officers. Together, we can build a culture where safety concerns are addressed openly, rather than silenced through intimidation or retaliation.
