Gov. Newsom signs law to push Cal Fire salaries toward local fire department levels

Governor Gavin Newsom signed a bill that mandates the succeeding governor to negotiate Cal Fire compensation so it falls within 15% of the average pay at 20 California fire departments, addressing a 27% disparity shown in a 2025 salary survey. Cal Fire personnel, who endure longer work schedules, currently earn less than their municipal counterparts, with engineers making $21,700 per month versus $26,500 locally. The legislation does not guarantee a raise but requires the California Department of Human Resources to engage in good-faith talks, potentially spanning a two- to three-year agreement.

Union president Tim Edwards hailed the action as evidence of the governor’s appreciation for firefighters battling megafires and the pandemic. The measure, originally vetoed by Newsom, was re-filed by Republican Assemblymember Heath Flora and cleared the Assembly 77-1 and the Senate 40-0.