Governor Ron DeSantis has announced the 2025 budget, which prioritizes funding for Florida’s veteran community through the Florida Department of Veterans’ Affairs (FDVA). The FDVA is tasked with serving the country’s second-largest veteran population, providing a network of State Veterans’ Homes and outreach programs to connect veterans with necessary services and benefits.
Retired Marine Corps Major General James S. Hartsell, Executive Director of the FDVA, praised Governor DeSantis’ leadership: “We are the premier destination for our nation’s veterans and their families, thanks to the powerful leadership and bold advocacy of Florida Governor Ron DeSantis.” He further highlighted that as a Navy veteran himself, Governor DeSantis has been instrumental in ensuring Florida remains a leader in supporting its 1.4 million veterans.
The budget allocates $12.3 million for capital improvements at State Veterans’ Nursing Homes. This includes $3 million dedicated to renovating the Baldomero Lopez State Veterans’ Nursing Home in Land O’ Lakes. Additionally, $2.2 million is set aside for enhancing medication management safety in these homes.
To support veterans’ employment opportunities, the budget maintains a $2 million investment aimed at helping veterans acquire skills-based employment and assisting them in business creation and operation. Furthermore, it introduces a $1 million allocation for the Veterans Dental Care Grant Program to improve access to dental care services through nonprofit organizations.
