Governor DeSantis Announces New Police Initiative Including $5,000 Signing Bonus

By Brendon Leslie

Published Aug. 18, 2021, 10:31 p.m. ET | Updated Jan. 3, 2023

By Tyler Shaw

August 18, 2021 Updated 10:15 P.M. ET

Tuesday, during the 65th Biennial Conference of the National Fraternal Order of Police, Governor Ron DeSantis (R-FL) announced a new initiative to recruit and retain talented law enforcement officers.

This new initiative includes a $5,000 signing bonus for anyone who moves to Florida to become a law enforcement officer and to any young person who completes the required training to become an officer.

In addition, this initiative will set aside 5 million dollars for police academy scholarships and will cover all costs associated with training programs and certification exams required to certify new Florida law enforcement officers.

“We respect the rule of law, we respect people that wear the uniform, and we may very well have spots for you. And we’re going to make sure to reward the folks that want to come and help keep us safe.” said DeSantis.

Governor DeSantis’ new initiative is scheduled to take place during Florida’s next legislative session in January 2022.