Governor DeSantis Signs Landmark Legislation to Support Florida’s Veterans
June 6, 2025
PORT CHARLOTTE, Fla. — On the anniversary of D-Day, Governor Ron DeSantis signed three bills to strengthen support for Florida’s nearly 1.5 million veterans and their families. These measures reinforce Florida’s standing as the nation’s most military- and veteran-friendly state, delivering enhanced care, mental health resources, and protections.
“Florida is dedicated to serving those who served us,” said Governor DeSantis. “These bills ensure our veterans receive the respect, care, and opportunities they’ve earned.”
The legislation includes House Bill 797, Senate Bill 116, and Senate Bill 910.
House Bill 797 eases access to long-term care by removing bureaucratic barriers like the Certificate of Needs process for veterans and their spouses. It authorizes skilled nursing facilities to reserve beds for veterans, with the Florida Department of Veterans’ Affairs (FDVA) overseeing adherence to strict care standards.
Senate Bill 116 enhances veteran mental health support by broadening suicide prevention programs to include early mental health detection, not just crisis intervention. It also mandates a statewide plan for adult health care centers designed for veterans.
Senate Bill 910 protects veterans from unscrupulous benefits advisors by imposing tough regulations. It links advisor payments to verified benefit increases, caps fees, bans referral kickbacks, prohibits misleading claims, and requires stringent background checks. Violators face harsher penalties under the Florida Deceptive and Unfair Trade Practices Act.
The Governor also spotlighted the Hope Florida “A Pathway for Patriots” initiative, led by First Lady Casey DeSantis. Since late 2023, this FDVA program has supported over 1,000 veterans with navigators who help them overcome challenges and achieve financial stability. Veterans can connect by calling (833-GET-HOPE).
For more on veteran resources, visit FloridaVets.org. Reach a State Veterans’ Service Officer at (727) 319-7440 (calls returned within 24 hours) or email FDVA.vso@FDVA.fl.gov (mailto:FDVA.vso@FDVA.fl.gov).
For 24/7 assistance, call the National Veteran Crisis Hotline at 988, press 1, the Florida Veterans Support Line at 1-844-MyFLVet (1-844-693-5838), or dial 211.
