Legislative Victory: 94 Pro-Firefighter Bills Passed Under Murphy Administration

Atlantic City, NJ – Legislative Committee Chair Carlos Mercado delivered an impressive report to convention delegates on September 16, 2025, detailing unprecedented success in advancing firefighter interests through the state legislature over the past eight years under Governor Phil Murphy's administration.

The New Jersey State Firefighters Mutual Benevolent Association has seen 94 FMBA-tracked bills pass into law during Murphy's tenure, representing the most productive period of legislative achievement in the organization's 129-year history. The success stems from what Mercado described as having "a seat at the table in Trenton" and building strategic partnerships with lawmakers who understand first responder needs.

"The MBI team does incredible work monitoring 580 bills," Mercado told delegates, referencing the lobbying firm that tracks legislation on behalf of the union. "We are hopeful that several important bills will see action this session."

Among the priority legislation currently under consideration is a bill designating Emergency Medical Services as Essential Services, a classification that would provide enhanced protections and benefits for EMS workers across New Jersey. The measure has languished in committee for years but gained renewed momentum following the COVID-19 pandemic, which highlighted the critical nature of emergency medical response.

Another significant bill would provide employment protection for first responders diagnosed with Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), recognizing the psychological toll of emergency response work. The legislation would ensure that firefighters receiving PTSD treatment cannot face discrimination or termination based on their diagnosis, a protection already afforded to military veterans in many states.

The committee is also advancing revisions to police and fire interest arbitration procedures, addressing concerns about the current system's delays and inconsistencies. Only three interest arbitration awards were issued in 2025, creating a backlog that leaves many firefighters working without contracts for extended periods.

The crown jewel of the FMBA's legislative achievements remains Senate Bill S-5, which transferred control of $33 billion in pension fund assets from the State of New Jersey to a board of trustees with a majority composed of police officers and firefighters. The unprecedented reform, signed into law in 2024, fundamentally altered the pension landscape for public safety employees.

"Our greatest bill accomplishment was the pension fund transfer out of the State of NJ hands and into our control," Mercado emphasized, drawing sustained applause from the convention floor. The legislation ensures that pension investment decisions prioritize the interests of beneficiaries rather than state budgetary concerns.

Mercado stressed the importance of voter registration and participation, noting that a registration table was available throughout the convention. "Please make sure your members are registered to vote," he urged local presidents. "Elections have consequences, and we need our members engaged in the political process."

The legislative success stands in stark contrast to previous administrations, where firefighter priorities often took a back seat to other interests. The Murphy administration's willingness to collaborate with the FMBA on complex policy issues has created a productive working relationship that benefits both parties.

Looking ahead, the FMBA faces challenges in maintaining this influence regardless of who wins the 2026 gubernatorial election. The organization's strategy of building bipartisan relationships and demonstrating the value of firefighter input on public safety policy aims to ensure continued access to decision-makers.

Convention delegates unanimously approved the Legislative Committee's recommendation to endorse a slate of candidates for the November 2025 general election, spanning both major political parties. The endorsements reflect the FMBA's non-partisan approach to politics, supporting candidates based on their positions on firefighter issues rather than party affiliation.