The bill amends existing Florida statutes to revise the admissions process for veterans treatment court programs. It allows the court, in consultation with a multidisciplinary team, to determine a defendant's eligibility for these programs, rather than solely relying on the state attorney's review. The court must consider the state attorney's recommendations when making eligibility determinations. The criteria for participation include having a service-related mental health condition or other specified issues, and the court must evaluate various factors, such as the nature of the offense and the defendant's criminal history, to ensure that participation is in the interest of justice.
Additionally, the bill authorizes sentencing courts to divert defendants to veterans treatment court programs for nonviolent felonies if the defendant is a servicemember or veteran and meets the eligibility criteria. The defendant must be informed about the program's purpose and agree to participate. The bill also stipulates that any probation or community control violations for participants will be handled by the judge overseeing the veterans treatment court program. This legislation is set to take effect on July 1, 2026.