This bill amends existing Florida statutes to enhance the admissions process for veterans treatment court programs. It allows a multidisciplinary team to determine a defendant's eligibility for these programs, rather than solely relying on the state attorney's assessment. The criteria for admission include having a service-related mental health condition or substance use disorder, and the program's participation must be deemed beneficial for both the defendant and the community. The bill also specifies that the assessment for eligibility will consider various factors, including the nature of the offense, the defendant's criminal history, and any recommendations from law enforcement or victims.

Additionally, the bill introduces provisions for sentencing courts to divert defendants to veterans treatment court programs for nonviolent felonies, provided the defendant is a servicemember or veteran and meets the eligibility criteria. Successful completion of the program will be a condition of probation or community control. The bill outlines the process for handling violations of probation or community control for participants in the veterans treatment court program, ensuring that such violations are addressed by the presiding judge of the program. The act is set to take effect on July 1, 2026.