The bill amends several sections of Florida Statutes to enhance support for members of the Florida State Guard. It provides that these members are entitled to specified leaves of absence without loss of pay or benefits while engaged in training. Additionally, it introduces a 15-percent discount on annual state park entrance passes for current members and establishes an annual Florida State Guard gold sportsman's license, available for $34.48, which allows the same activities as the standard gold sportsman's license.
Furthermore, the bill creates the Florida State Guard Scholarship Program, administered by the Department of Education, to offer scholarships to eligible members who have completed at least four years of service. The program outlines specific eligibility criteria, including enrollment in a Florida College System institution or state university, and provides for funding based on legislative appropriation. The act is set to take effect on July 1, 2025.