The bill amends Florida statutes to enhance support for first responders by renaming the Florida Law Enforcement Recruitment Bonus Payment Program to the Florida Law Enforcement Officer and Firefighter Recruitment Bonus Payment Program. It expands the program to include newly employed firefighters and requires the Department of Commerce to work with the Division of State Fire Marshal to verify relevant information and define firefighter misconduct. Additionally, the bill establishes a new section for the Institute for Posttraumatic Stress Disorder within the Department of Financial Services, focusing on improving the mental health and resilience of first responders through research, training, and outreach.

Furthermore, the bill authorizes the Chief Financial Officer to appoint review panels to assist in the grant review process, detailing their composition and responsibilities, and mandates that the Chief Financial Officer review the panels' recommendations for inclusion in the legislative budget request starting January 1, 2027. It sets various definitions and requirements related to the recruitment bonus program and establishes rules for administering these initiatives, with an expiration date of July 1, 2028. The bill aims to foster collaboration among Florida College System institutions, state universities, public safety agencies, mental health providers, and community organizations to create a more integrated approach to addressing community needs and improving services, with the act taking effect immediately upon becoming law.

Statutes affected:
S 1286 Filed: 445.08, 633.134