Firefighters criticize veto of pension adjustment bill

President of the Firefighters Union José Tirado.

By The Star Staff

The United Firefighters Union of Puerto Rico (SBUPR) voiced strong outrage Monday over Governor Jenniffer González’s decision to veto Senate Bill 647, known as the Firefighters’ Reasonable Retirement Adjustment Act, without any explanation to the public or the first responders directly affected by this decision.

“On Sunday, we found out, just like everyone else, through the media about the Governor’s veto. This came after the La Fortaleza Chief of Staff requested 24 hours for us to respond just last Wednesday. Instead of sticking to her word, she opted for a silent and cowardly veto, reflecting a blatant lack of respect for the brave men and women of the Puerto Rico Firefighters Bureau who risk their lives every day,” stated José Tirado, president of the Firefighters Union.

Tirado expressed that the Governor’s inaction not only demonstrates insensitivity but also shows a clear disregard for those who have dedicated years of service to Puerto Rico.

“We will stay organized, firm, and determined—because a dignified retirement is not a handout; it’s a matter of basic justice for public servants who put their lives on the line daily, especially when there are identified funding sources that won’t affect the General Fund,” Tirado said.

He announced plans to share updates on new actions and initiatives in the coming days to continue this vital fight.

On Friday, both active and retired firefighters marched to call for the Governor’s immediate signature on the bill, which had been unanimously approved by the legislature and had been sitting before her for 28 days. The deadline for signing or vetoing the bill expired on Saturday.

“The sacrifices our firefighters make can no longer be brushed aside. This bill represents a promise of justice—both financial and moral—for those who have devoted their lives to public service,” Tirado emphasized on Friday. “We demand that the Governor heed the cries of those working under extreme conditions, with meager wages and limited resources. We aren’t asking for privileges; we are demanding dignity.”

Tirado criticized the Governor for previously referring to the firefighters who aided in rescue efforts during a nightclub fire in the Dominican Republic as “heroes.” “What we’re asking is simple: where there’s talk, there must be action. Otherwise, it veers into hypocrisy,” he asserted.

The bill’s approval and subsequent creation of the law would ensure that firefighters can retire receiving 50% of their average salary. Currently, Tirado explained, retired firefighters receive about 23% of their income from 2013, which translates to less than $500 per month.

According to Tirado, this initiative wouldn’t strain the government’s budget, as the funds would come from income generated by Fire Prevention Certificates, required for short-term rental properties, and deposited into a trust designated specifically for that purpose.