Governor Ron DeSantis signs three new bills aimed at improving the lives of Florida veterans and the families who support them

Port Sharlotte, Florida – In a significant move aimed at honoring and aiding those who served, Governor Ron DeSantis signed three new bills into law on Thursday that expand and improve support for Florida’s veteran community. The legislation, signed on the anniversary of D-Day, represents a firm commitment to ensuring Florida remains the most welcoming and supportive state for veterans and their families.

“On D-Day and every day, Florida honors those who served our country in uniform,” said Governor Ron DeSantis. “I was proud to support three bills today to further our commitment to veterans. Florida remains the most veteran-friendly state in the nation.”

With nearly 1.5 million veterans residing in Florida, the state already has a reputation for being a national leader in veteran care and services. But these new legislative efforts go further, tackling issues related to healthcare, mental wellness, and legal protections from exploitation.

The first bill, House Bill 797, is designed to improve long-term care access for veterans and their spouses. By eliminating outdated bureaucratic hurdles like the Certificate of Need requirement, the bill allows more skilled nursing facilities to provide designated beds specifically for veterans. Facilities that meet strict admission and care standards will now be able to reserve spots for those who served, giving aging veterans a clearer and faster path to the care they need.

The Florida Department of Veterans’ Affairs (FDVA) will have the authority to oversee and approve these designations, ensuring veterans receive the high-quality services they deserve.

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Senate Bill 116 marks a major overhaul in how Florida approaches mental health care for veterans. Rather than waiting for crises to unfold, the new legislation supports early intervention and prevention strategies. Suicide prevention efforts will now include early recognition of mental health conditions, which could lead to more lives saved and greater overall well-being within the veteran population.

This bill also lays the groundwork for a statewide network of adult healthcare centers specifically tailored for veterans. These centers are expected to provide more targeted services, reducing strain on general facilities and offering veterans a space where their specific needs are understood and addressed.

Senate Bill 910 takes a strong stance against those who attempt to take advantage of veterans during the complicated process of applying for benefits. The bill sets clear boundaries for unaccredited benefits advisors and introduces serious consequences for those engaging in deceptive practices.

Under the new law, anyone offering paid help for navigating veteran benefits must meet strict standards, including a high-level background check. Advisors will only be able to charge fees if they actually help the veteran increase their benefits. The law also bans kickback referrals, false guarantees, and misleading advertising.

These changes are expected to clean up the space around veterans’ services, ensuring veterans receive accurate, trustworthy guidance when pursuing the benefits they’ve earned.

Governor DeSantis also took time to spotlight the Hope Florida “A Pathway for Patriots” program, a growing initiative launched by First Lady Casey DeSantis. The program helps connect veterans with trained “Hope Navigators” who guide them toward resources that support their long-term stability and independence.

Since its launch in late 2023, more than 1,000 veterans have received support through this program. Whether dealing with housing challenges, employment needs, or financial insecurity, the navigators offer real solutions tailored to individual circumstances.

Veterans in need can call the Hope Line at 833-GET-HOPE to be connected with assistance.

Veterans seeking information or help can access a growing list of services. The Florida Department of Veterans’ Affairs offers details on benefits at FloridaVets.org, and veterans can speak to a State Veterans’ Service Officer by calling (727) 319-7440. The FDVA promises to return all calls within 24 hours. They can also be reached via email at [email protected].

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For those in crisis, help is always available. Veterans can call the National Veteran Crisis Hotline at 988 and press 1, or reach out to the Florida Veterans Support Line at 1-844-MyFL-Vet (1-844-693-5838). Dialing 211 will also connect callers to a range of support services.

With these new laws, Florida is continuing to build on its legacy of service to those who served. The comprehensive nature of the legislation—addressing healthcare access, mental health, and legal protections—signals a broader vision for veteran care in the Sunshine State.

Governor DeSantis’s actions show that for Florida, honoring veterans goes far beyond ceremonies and memorials. It’s about delivering real, tangible help—especially at a time when veterans across the nation are navigating complex challenges. These bills provide new hope and reinforce Florida’s role as a leader in veteran support.

And as the state moves forward with implementation, thousands of Florida veterans and their families can expect not just symbolic recognition, but meaningful changes that improve their daily lives.