The bill amends Florida statutes to enhance the Florida Law Enforcement Recruitment Bonus Payment Program, renaming it to the Florida Law Enforcement Officer and Firefighter Recruitment Bonus Payment Program. It expands eligibility to include newly employed firefighters and establishes definitions for key terms. The Department of Commerce is mandated to collaborate with the Division of State Fire Marshal to verify program-related information. The bill revises the program's expiration date to July 1, 2028, and outlines the responsibilities of the department in administering the program, including the distribution of one-time bonus payments of up to $5,000 to eligible newly employed officers and firefighters.

Additionally, the bill authorizes the Chief Financial Officer to appoint a review panel to assist in the grant review process for fire service-related grants, consisting of five members responsible for reviewing applications and holding public forums. It also establishes the Institute for Posttraumatic Stress Disorder within the Department of Financial Services to support the mental health of first responders through research, training, and outreach initiatives. Furthermore, House Bill 1129 introduces a new initiative focused on improving the behavioral health of first responders, mandating the creation of an institute to coordinate statewide research on issues like suicide prevention and resilience-building. The institute will develop best practices, facilitate training, and collaborate with various partners to enhance service delivery, with provisions for the division to adopt necessary implementation rules. The act is set to take effect upon becoming law.

Statutes affected:
H 1129 Filed: 445.08, 633.134