The proposed bill, titled the "Educational Dollars for Duty Program Expansion Act," aims to enhance the existing Educational Dollars for Duty program by providing additional financial support for the families of active members of the Florida National Guard. Specifically, the bill mandates that $500,000 of existing funds be set aside each fiscal year to offer financial assistance covering up to 50% of tuition costs for spouses and children of these service members. The Legislature is granted the authority to increase this funding amount as necessary. Furthermore, the Department of Military Affairs is tasked with overseeing the implementation and enforcement of this program, including establishing procedures for verifying eligibility and distributing funds.

In addition to the new provisions for family support, the bill also renumbers and amends existing sections of Florida Statutes related to the Educational Dollars for Duty program. It outlines eligibility requirements for members of the Florida National Guard seeking education assistance, including maintaining good standing and satisfactory participation in the Guard. The bill also specifies penalties for noncompliance with program requirements, ensuring that members who fail to meet their obligations may be required to reimburse the Department of Military Affairs for tuition and fees received. The act is set to take effect on July 1, 2026.