Florida Enhances Veteran Support with New Laws Signed by Governor DeSantis
June 6, 2025
PORT CHARLOTTE, Fla. — Governor Ron DeSantis today signed three bills designed to improve the lives of Florida’s 1.5 million veterans and their families, cementing the state’s reputation as the most veteran-friendly in the nation. Signed on D-Day, these laws underscore Florida’s commitment to those who have served.
“Florida is proud to lead the way in supporting our veterans,” said Governor DeSantis. “These new laws will provide better care, stronger protections, and more opportunities for those who’ve given so much for our country.”
The signed bills are House Bill 797, Senate Bill 116, and Senate Bill 910.
House Bill 797 improves access to long-term care by removing red tape, such as the Certificate of Needs process, for veterans and their spouses. It permits skilled nursing facilities to allocate specific beds for veterans, with the Florida Department of Veterans’ Affairs (FDVA) ensuring facilities meet strict care and admission standards.
Senate Bill 116 bolsters veteran mental health services by expanding suicide prevention to include early intervention for mental health challenges. It also calls for a statewide strategy to establish adult health care centers dedicated to veterans.
Senate Bill 910 shields veterans from predatory benefits advisors by enforcing stringent rules. It ties advisor compensation to actual benefit increases, limits fees, prohibits referral kickbacks, bans deceptive guarantees, and requires high-level background checks for paid advisors. Violations will trigger tougher penalties under the Florida Deceptive and Unfair Trade Practices Act.
Governor DeSantis also commended the Hope Florida “A Pathway for Patriots” program, led by First Lady Casey DeSantis. Since late 2023, this FDVA initiative has helped over 1,000 veterans achieve economic independence through personalized navigator support. Veterans can access this program by calling (833-GET-HOPE).
Visit FloridaVets.org for information on veteran benefits and services. To speak with 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 help, 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.
