Bill to Assist Military Families Moves Forward

From the Senate Dems:

Senate Bill 644, creating the Soldiers and Airmen Assistance Program, passed unanimously through its first committee today. Sponsored by Senator Charlie Justice (D-St. Petersburg), the bill will provide much needed financial assistance to struggling military families by utilizing private donations. Currently, active duty soldiers in Florida’s National Guard cannot accept financial assistance due to federal regulations.

“This is an important bill, that will immediately provide some relief for our military families who are struggling through this tough economy,” Senator Justice said. “There are funds available. This bill will allow us to access this money for its intended purpose.”

According to the Department of Military Affairs, there is close to $300,000 of private donations ready to be disbursed. The funds will go to help families of Florida National Guardsmen serving on active duty with living expenses.

The next stop for the bill is the Senate Government Oversight and Accountability Committee.