FL H1567

County emergency management directors must complete 50 hours of training in business/public administration, management, or emergency management/preparedness, or hold a bachelor's degree as a substitute.

Directors must have 4 years of verifiable experience in comprehensive emergency management services, including direct supervisory responsibility for responding to at least 1 emergency or disaster. A relevant master's degree may substitute for 2 of the 4 years, and certain professional certifications (e.g., FEMA Certified Master Exercise Practitioner, CEM, or Florida Professional Emergency Manager) may substitute for the full experience requirement.

Directors must complete 150 hours of FEMA-provided or approved comprehensive emergency management training, including six specific National Incident Management System courses (ICS-100, ICS-200, ICS-300, ICS-400, IS-700, IS-800), all completed within 10 years preceding the date of appointment.

Directors must hold a valid driver license and obtain a Florida driver license within 30 days of appointment if not already holding one.

Current directors who do not meet the new training or certification requirements as of July 1, 2024, have until June 30, 2026, to complete them.