DeSantis Champions Veterans: New Bills Enhance Care and Support in Florida

Broward County, Florida - On June 6, 2025, Governor Ron DeSantis signed a host of legislative measures aimed at enhancing support for Florida’s veterans. The event took place during a news conference in Port Charlotte, coinciding with the 81st anniversary of D-Day, underscoring the state’s ongoing commitment to honoring its military heroes. Florida, home to nearly 1.5 million veterans, has garnered a reputation as the most military- and veteran-friendly state in the nation.

Among the legislation signed was House Bill 797, which permits licensed skilled nursing facilities to designate certain beds specifically for veterans and their spouses. This move is designed to streamline access to long-term care, easing bureaucratic hurdles such as Certificate of Need processes that can delay admission for those who have served. As DeSantis noted, „We are making Florida the top state for veterans,“ and these supportive measures are reflective of that pledge.

Veteran Support Initiatives

In addition to HB 797, the Governor signed other significant bills associated with veteran support. Senate Bill 910 focuses on protecting veterans from predatory practices in the benefits assistance process. It prohibits benefits providers from making misleading guarantees about outcomes and bans compensation for referrals to individuals assisting with claims. This is a crucial step to ensure that veterans receive fair and transparent assistance without being lured into questionable arrangements.

Alongside these, Senate Bill 116 aimed to expand mental health support initiatives specifically geared towards veterans. It mandates the Department of Veterans’ Affairs to conduct studies on service awareness and adds specialized training to the existing Veteran Suicide Prevention Training Pilot Program. One of the standout features is the creation of a comprehensive plan for adult day health care facilities tailored for veterans and their families.

A Comprehensive Network for Assistance

The legislative efforts highlight the ongoing initiatives by the state, such as the Hope Florida “A Pathway for Patriots” program led by First Lady Casey DeSantis. This program connects veterans with trained navigators, offering a lifeline of support for those who may be struggling. Since its inception, the initiative has assisted over 1,000 veterans. For those in need of assistance, the Hope Line at 833-GET-HOPE is available as a resource.

Moreover, the Governor emphasized the importance of accessible resources for veterans. Websites like FloridaVets.org serve to provide information on available services and benefits, while local Veterans’ Service Officers can offer direct assistance. The National Veteran Crisis Hotline and Florida Veterans Support Line further extend a helping hand in times of need.

Governor DeSantis’ signing of these bills not only signals Florida’s commitment to its veterans but also solidifies its place as a leader in veteran support. As the state continues to expand its resources and outreach, there’s a stronger framework in place to ensure that those who have served our country receive the care and respect they deserve.