The bill amends several sections of Florida Statutes to enhance support for veterans, including changes to the nomination process for the Florida Veterans' Hall of Fame, the distribution of fees from the Gadsden Flag license plate, and the admissions process for veterans treatment court programs. Specifically, the number of annual nominees for the Hall of Fame is reduced from 20 to 5. Additionally, the annual use fees from the Gadsden Flag license plate will now allow up to 10 percent to be used for administrative costs and marketing, ensuring that more funds are directed towards benefiting veterans.

Furthermore, the bill modifies the admissions process for veterans treatment court programs by allowing courts to determine eligibility without needing consultation with the state attorney. It also authorizes sentencing courts to divert defendants to these programs under certain conditions, particularly for nonviolent felonies committed by servicemembers or veterans. The bill requires that defendants be informed about the program's purpose and agree to participate, while also establishing procedures for handling probation or community control violations for participants. The act is set to take effect on July 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
H 845 Filed: 265.003, 320.08058