This bill amends several sections of Florida Statutes related to military affairs, expanding the scope of military leave provisions to include members of the Coast Guard and the Florida State Guard. Specifically, it revises the authorization for leave of absence for military service to no longer require that such service occur during a war, and it clarifies that leave for public officials and employees performing active military service is based on a single order. Additionally, the definition of "active military service" is updated to include service in the Florida State Guard and the Coast Guard, while the eligibility criteria for the Soldiers and Airmen Assistance Program are broadened to include traditional drilling guardsmen on state active duty or Title 32 duty.

The bill also makes technical changes, such as deleting the requirement for certain positions within the Department of Military Affairs to participate in the Senior Management Service Class and removing provisions related to youth and adult programs previously administered by the Adjutant General. Furthermore, it establishes a more structured review process for financial assistance requests under the Soldiers and Airmen Assistance Program, requiring annual audits and bylaw reviews by the board of directors of the Florida National Guard Foundation. The act is set to take effect on July 1, 2026.

Statutes affected:
S 474 Filed: 115.01, 115.08, 115.09, 115.14, 121.055, 250.10
S 474 c1: 115.01, 115.08, 115.09, 115.14, 121.055, 250.10