“Governor DeSantis made a bold statement today and firmly planted Florida’s flag as the top post-service destination for the 200,000 servicemembers nationwide who transition out of the military each year. We thank Governor DeSantis, Senator Wright, and Representative Sirois for their leadership creating the Florida SkillBridge Initiative,” said Veterans Florida Executive Director Joe Marino. “Veterans Florida is ready to help employers build a pipeline of military talent that ensures a competitive workforce for years to come which benefits Florida’s economy and attracts new industries.”

HB 435 creates a statewide awareness and employment program built on the Department of Defense SkillBridge Program which allows servicemembers to gain workforce training at private businesses while on active duty as they are transitioning out of the military and designates Veterans Florida as the state’s principal SkillBridge assistance organization to employers and transitioning servicemembers.