Robert “Bob” Asztalos has been appointed as the new Director of the Agency for Persons with Disabilities (APD) by Florida Governor Ron DeSantis. The announcement was made in Tallahassee on August 5, 2025.
Governor DeSantis stated, “Bob has dedicated his career to serving others, including his leadership at the Florida Department of Veterans’ Affairs. I’m confident he will work hard to improve the lives of Floridians with unique abilities.”
Asztalos expressed gratitude for his appointment. “I am honored to be appointed by Governor DeSantis to lead the Agency for Persons with Disabilities,” said Robert “Bob” Asztalos. “I look forward to working with APD’s dedicated staff and partners to make sure individuals with unique abilities have the opportunities and support they need to thrive.”
Since 2021, Asztalos served as Deputy Executive Director at the Florida Department of Veterans’ Affairs (FDVA), where he managed eight state veteran nursing homes and one state veterans domiciliary. He also previously held a leadership role in a veteran-owned medical equipment company and has experience in health care policy and advocacy at both state and federal levels.
James Hartsell, Executive Director of FDVA, commented on Asztalos’s departure: “Bob Asztalos has tremendous passion for the veterans of our great free state, and he has my full trust and confidence as a leader. Bob’s tireless efforts to improve the operations and success of our State Veterans Homes will have a lasting impact for many years to come. I wish Bob fair winds and following seas in his new role.”
In addition to his work in Tallahassee as Chief Lobbyist for the Florida Health Care Association and Government Relations Consultant for Easter Seals Florida, Asztalos worked in Washington, D.C., representing organizations such as the American Health Care Association, American Physical Therapy Association, and law firm Wilmer, Cutler & Pickering.
Asztalos is a Navy and Navy Reserve veteran who served for 29 years and spent an additional 17 years in the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary. He holds bachelor’s and master’s degrees from George Washington University. His board service includes roles with organizations like the Florida Veterans Foundation, Fleet Reserve Association Branch 34, Ladies Learning to Lead, and Pines of Sarasota Rehabilitation & Senior Care Community.