House Bill 1241 seeks to enhance support for veterans in Florida by appropriating $2.5 million in recurring funds from the General Revenue Fund to the Department of Veterans' Affairs for various veteran programs. The bill introduces a new section, 295.25, which exempts veterans from certain filing fees related to business registrations and designations, allowing them to apply for this exemption only once. It also expands fee exemptions for veterans and their spouses concerning driver licenses and establishes reduced fees for lifetime hunting and sportsman's licenses for active or retired military personnel.

Additionally, the bill amends existing statutes to clarify the authority of the chief judge in determining the eligibility of dishonorably discharged veterans for participation in veterans treatment court programs, specifically removing the state attorney's role in this decision-making process. The bill also revises the membership of the board of directors for Florida Is For Veterans, Inc., increasing it from 11 to 12 members to ensure representation from active or retired military personnel. These changes are set to take effect on July 1, 2025, reflecting a commitment to improving the benefits and support systems available to veterans in Florida.

Statutes affected:
H 1241 Filed: 295.124, 295.22, 394.47891