DeSantis Signs 11 New Laws: Boosts Veteran Care and Alcohol Sales in Oviedo!

Bonita Springs, Florida, USA - On June 7, 2025, Florida Governor Ron DeSantis signed a new batch of laws that reflect ongoing support for certain community needs, including significant provisions for veterans and some changes affecting local governance. As the legislative session comes to a close, these laws introduce crucial measures aimed not only at assisting veterans but also at fine-tuning various operational structures within the state.

Among the notable laws passed, some truly stand out. For instance, Click Orlando reports that the „Nursing Home Beds“ law allows specific facilities to dedicate beds for veterans and their spouses, aiming to enhance the availability of VA services. This measure, slated to take effect on July 1, is just one among several that emphasize the importance of caring for those who have served our nation.

Supporting Our Veterans

Delving deeper, the new legislation includes the „Veteran Healthcare“ law, which expands suicide prevention programs and mandates the Florida Department of Veterans‘ Affairs (FDVA) to set up adult day healthcare facilities for veterans and their families. This initiative is crucial as it helps to address the mental health crisis many veterans face today.

Additionally, the „Veteran Benefits“ law is particularly noteworthy as it takes steps to protect veterans from unaccredited advisors who can mislead them regarding their benefits. By implementing strict background checks and banning referral kickbacks for paid advisors, this law aims to create a safer environment for veterans navigating their entitlements.

The current legislative session has seen other efforts to enhance veterans‘ assistance as well. As noted by the Florida Veterans Foundation, Governor DeSantis has previously signed various bills from the last several legislative sessions that also benefitted veterans, including measures focused on healthcare, housing, and welfare, emphasizing that this commitment to veteran legislation isn’t new for his administration.

A New District and Alcohol Sales

While veteran-related legislation takes center stage, there are also some intriguing developments in local governance, particularly in Oviedo. A new law establishes the „Oviedo Arts and Entertainment District,“ allowing businesses to sell alcohol in open containers. This offers a fresh perspective on enhancing community culture and aims to boost economic activity in the area, with specific cup designs to be decided by the city council.

The push for legislative changes surrounding alcohol sales doesn’t stop there. The ongoing discussions in the Florida Legislature about alcohol regulations also impact veterans‘ service organizations. According to Glover Law, recent amendments to laws such as HB 755 and SB 1082 aim to alleviate limitations on alcohol purchases by these organizations, encouraging support and camaraderie among veteran communities.

As Florida continues to evolve through its legislative actions, the latest batch of laws reflects not just practical governance but also a heartfelt dedication to honor and support the state’s veterans. With a mix of provisions enhancing healthcare, bolstering community activities, and safeguarding benefits, there’s a strong indication that concerns for veterans and local communities are firmly on the state’s radar.

In conclusion, as we watch these new laws come into effect—some immediately and others by July 1—it’s clear that Florida is keen to keep a watchful eye on both its veterans and its evolving residential landscape. As the local community responds to these changes, one can’t help but feel optimistic about the paths being carved out for both our veterans and the citizens alike.

For further details on the latest developments regarding veteran legislation, contact Colonel Roy Clark, U.S. Army (Ret), Legislative and Cabinet Affairs Director at Roy.Clark@FDVA.FL.GOV or Mitchell McCombs at Mitchell.McCombs@FDVA.FL.GOV.