Governor Signs Trio of Bills Expanding Support for Florida Veterans
Florida has strengthened its commitment to veterans with the signing of three new laws aimed at improving access to care, mental health services, and protections against fraud. Governor Ron DeSantis approved the legislation during a ceremony held Friday at the Douglas T. Jacobson State Veterans’ Nursing Home in Port Charlotte.
House Bill 797 simplifies the process for veterans and their spouses to receive long-term care by eliminating bureaucratic requirements such as the Certificate of Need process. The law enables skilled nursing facilities to reserve beds specifically for veterans and their spouses, pending approval from the Florida Department of Veterans’ Affairs (FDVA), provided the facilities meet rigorous care standards.
Senate Bill 116 overhauls Florida’s veteran mental health initiatives by expanding suicide prevention efforts beyond crisis intervention. The law introduces a framework for early detection of mental health conditions and calls for the development of a statewide plan to establish adult health care centers dedicated to serving veterans.
Senate Bill 910 targets fraudulent and predatory practices that exploit veterans seeking benefits. The legislation sets restrictions on unaccredited benefits advisors, ties payment to actual increases in benefits received, and caps compensation. It also bans referral kickbacks, false guarantees, and requires paid advisors to pass comprehensive background checks. Violations will be enforced under the Florida Deceptive and Unfair Trade Practices Act.
These measures reinforce Florida’s reputation as one of the most veteran-friendly states in the country, enhancing the systems in place to support those who have served in uniform.
Veterans seeking more information or assistance with benefits can visit FloridaVets.org or contact a state Veterans’ service officer at (727) 319-7440. Mental health support is available through the National Veteran Crisis Line at 988 (press 1) or the Florida Veterans Support Line at 1-844-MyFLVet (1-844-693-5838).
