Florida Bolsters Veteran Support with New Legislation Signed by Governor DeSantis
June 6, 2025
PORT CHARLOTTE, Fla. — Governor Ron DeSantis today enacted three significant bills to enhance support for Florida’s 1.5 million veterans and their families, reinforcing the state’s commitment to being the nation’s most military- and veteran-friendly state. Signed on the anniversary of D-Day, these laws strengthen care, protection, and opportunities for those who have served.
“Florida stands by our veterans every day, and these bills reflect our unwavering dedication to their well-being,” said Governor DeSantis. “We’re proud to lead the nation in supporting those who’ve served.”
The signed legislation includes House Bill 797, Senate Bill 116, and Senate Bill 910.
House Bill 797 simplifies access to long-term care for veterans and their spouses by eliminating bureaucratic hurdles, such as the Certificate of Needs process. It allows skilled nursing facilities to reserve beds specifically for veterans and their spouses, with the Florida Department of Veterans’ Affairs (FDVA) ensuring compliance with high care and admission standards.
Senate Bill 116 strengthens veteran support by expanding suicide prevention efforts to include early mental health intervention, beyond just crisis response. It also mandates the development of a statewide plan for adult health care centers tailored to veterans’ needs.
Senate Bill 910 safeguards veterans from exploitative practices by regulating unaccredited benefits advisors. The bill ties advisor payments to tangible benefit increases for veterans, caps payouts, bans referral kickbacks, prohibits misleading claims, and requires rigorous background checks for paid advisors. Violations will face tougher penalties under the Florida Deceptive and Unfair Trade Practices Act.
Governor DeSantis also praised the Hope Florida “A Pathway for Patriots” program, led by First Lady Casey DeSantis. This initiative, part of the FDVA, connects veterans with navigators to overcome barriers and achieve economic independence. Since its launch in late 2023, over 1,000 veterans have benefited. Veterans can access support by calling the Hope Line at (833-GET-HOPE).
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For details on veteran benefits and services, visit FloridaVets.org. To reach a State Veterans’ Service Officer, call (727) 319-7440 for a response within 24 hours or email FDVA.vso@FDVA.fl.gov (mailto:FDVA.vso@FDVA.fl.gov).
For immediate assistance, contact 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.
