This bill amends several sections of Florida Statutes to enhance support and services for veterans. Notably, it reduces the maximum number of nominees for the Florida Veterans Hall of Fame from 20 to 5. The Department of Veterans Affairs is tasked with conducting a comprehensive study to assess veterans' awareness of existing programs and services, and to evaluate their health literacy, with the aim of improving public awareness and access to resources. Additionally, the bill revises the Veteran Suicide Prevention Training Pilot Program to include specialized mental health training for participants, who will learn to identify mental health conditions and provide crisis referrals.

Further amendments include the establishment of a plan for adult day health care facilities for veterans and their families, with a report due to the Legislature by November 1, 2025. The bill also authorizes the use of a portion of proceeds from a specialty license plate for administrative costs and appropriates funds for the Department of Veterans Affairs to conduct surveys and implement the suicide prevention training program. Overall, the bill aims to improve the quality of life for veterans in Florida through enhanced services, training, and awareness initiatives.

Statutes affected:
S 116 Filed: 265.003, 295.124, 295.22, 296.43, 320.08058
S 116 c1: 295.124, 295.22, 296.43, 320.08058
S 116 c2: 295.124, 295.22, 296.43, 320.08058