DeSantis Signs Bills to Help Veterans Find Jobs and Pay Tuition

June 9, 2022 Updated 2:39 P.M. ET

FORT WALTON BEACH (FLV) – Florida’s Governor signed bills Thursday that aim to help veterans find civilian jobs and assist veterans with disabilities in paying tuition.

“Providing military families with the resources they need to receive a high-quality education and find good jobs is the best way that we as a state can show our appreciation for the sacrifices that they make,” Gov. Ron DeSantis said. 

DeSantis signed H.B. 45 that would provide extra funding so veterans with disabilities could have 100 percent of their tuition paid for. The Governor said the GI bill does not fully cover tuition, so Florida’s new law would close the gap. 

Another bill, S.B. 430, helps military children smoothly transition into schools. It assists with enrollment, record transfers, and verification of graduation requirements. 

“Governor DeSantis has prioritized Florida’s military communities, and DEO is proud to support his efforts through innovative and dynamic opportunities,” said Florida Department of Economic Opportunity Secretary Dane Eagle. “Projects funded through DEO’s military grant programs promote economic growth and diversification in military communities and enhance the lives of all Floridians.”

DeSantis signed a bill (S.B. 514) allowing state agencies to substitute work experience, like military experience, for postsecondary education. This will let veterans use their on the job experience to apply for civilian jobs.

Veterans will more easily be able to teach in schools. S.B. 896 will allow their military service to count toward the requirement for a temporary educator certificate under the mentorship of a certified teacher. Another new law requires the Department of Business and Professional Regulation to expedite license applications of active-duty military spouses.

DeSantis signed another bill to include the United States Space Force in Florida’s definition of Uniformed Service.