The 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 access to resources. Additionally, the bill mandates the development of a plan for establishing adult day health care facilities for veterans and their families, and it requires the Department to coordinate with the U.S. Department of Defense to assist returning servicemembers.

Furthermore, the bill expands the Veteran Suicide Prevention Training Pilot Program to include specialized mental health training for claims examiners and veteran service officers, emphasizing the identification of mental health conditions and suicide risk. It also requires Florida Is For Veterans, Inc. to advise the Department on the needs of military personnel and their spouses. The bill appropriates funds for conducting surveys and implementing the training program, ensuring that veterans receive the necessary support and resources to improve their well-being. The act is set to take effect on July 1, 2025.

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
S 116 er: 295.124, 295.22, 296.43, 320.08058