A battle between firefighters and the city of Orlando over contracts is heating up.
Firefighters have been working without a contract since September, and there’s still no sign of a compromise.
The city said one major sticking point is drug testing and is pushing for random drug testing and for testing after accidents.
But the union is pushing back.
“I think our thing is, we’ve not had problems in the past with drug testing,” said Ron Glass, of Orlando Professional Firefighters’ Union.
He said the current testing policy works, with firefighters being tested once a year during a physical. Members can be tested if there is suspicion of illegal drug use or alcohol or drug use on the job.
In 2025, firefighters Korey Steinert crashed into dozens of cars in a parking garage and was arrested on a DUI charge.
He was never tested.
“The fire chief refused to do it, even though HR and the city asked him to do it,” said Glass.
Glass said the testing issue is lumped into a packet with other changes the city is pushing that the union doesn’t support including job transfer rules, where the chief would have the power to move people instead of moving them based on seniority, and discipline, because the city wants the chief to have leeway in punishments.
The fire department referred all comments to the city.
If they reach an impasse, it will up to city commissioners to decide on a new contract.
Cox Media Group
