The bill amends existing Florida statutes to enhance the admissions process for veterans treatment court programs. It introduces a multidisciplinary team approach to determine eligibility for these programs, replacing the previous requirement for approval from the state attorney in consultation with the court. The bill specifies that entry into a postadjudicatory veterans treatment court program can be a condition of probation or community control, and outlines the criteria for eligibility, which includes having a service-related mental health condition or other related issues.

Additionally, the bill allows sentencing courts to divert defendants to veterans treatment court programs for nonviolent felonies if the defendant is a servicemember or veteran. It mandates that defendants be informed about the program's purpose and agree to participate. The bill also stipulates that any probation or community control violations by participants in the veterans treatment court program will be handled by the presiding judge of that program. The effective date for these changes is set for July 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
H 845 Filed: 265.003, 320.08058