Florida veterans’ nursing homes need $3.5 million more to cover expenses until 2025

Florida veterans' nursing homes don't have enough money to cover expenses for the next year, according to a budget amendment request. (Photo credit: Getty Images)

The Florida Department of Veterans’ Affairs is asking the state Legislature for $3.5 million to cover extra food and contractor costs at its nursing homes through July 2025, citing an increase in the occupancy rate.

Lawmakers on the Florida Legislative Budget Commission are set to meet on Friday to consider the request from the department, which says it doesn’t have enough money to cover the nursing homes’ projected expenses until the next fiscal year opens next summer, according to a budget amendment.

This year, the eight state-run nursing homes and an assisted living facility received $29.5 million to pay for contracted services and $4.3 million to buy food.

But the department says its homes for veterans are nearing full capacity, with the request for additional funds stating that the occupancy rate has increased by 26% over last year.

The bulk of the additional funds, $2,692,901, would go toward contracted services such as housekeeping. The department attributed the shortfall to the rising costs of food, therapy, and contract increases.

In June, Gov. Ron DeSantis approved a bill allowing spouses and widows of veterans to live in state-run nursing homes. The governor’s office has recommended the Legislature approve the budget amendment.

The budget commission will consider 15 amendments, including $543,500 to fix the A/C in the Florida Department of Commerce headquarters. The commission is made up of lawmakers in both chambers and serves as a way to adjust the current fiscal year’s budget in case or shortfalls or emergencies. Extra money would come from state reserves.