Governor Ron DeSantis announced today that Florida has distributed over 7,800 recruitment bonuses to new law enforcement officers through the state’s Law Enforcement Recruitment Bonus Payment Program, reinforcing Florida’s commitment to supporting its police forces.
The latest round of bonuses was awarded to officers in Marion County, with an additional 660 bonuses recently distributed statewide.
The program, launched in 2022, provides a one-time, after-tax $5,000 bonus to newly hired officers as an incentive to serve in Florida. Governor DeSantis highlighted the program’s success in attracting officers from states with “anti-police” policies.
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“When other states were defunding their police, demonizing law enforcement, and kneecapping their criminal justice system, we rewarded our law enforcement for their service,” said Governor DeSantis. “I was proud to be in Marion County to award recruitment bonus checks to Florida’s newest law enforcement officers and thank them for their commitment to protecting our communities.”
The program has successfully recruited over 1,700 officers from 49 other states and two territories, with over 500 relocating from states such as California, Illinois, and New York. To date, the program has distributed more than $53 million in bonuses.
Florida Secretary of Commerce J. Alex Kelly emphasized the state’s dedication to supporting law enforcement and combating illegal immigration.
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“Under Governor DeSantis’ leadership, Florida has led the nation in recruiting law enforcement officials and implementing strong immigration policies,” Kelly said. “We remain committed to strengthening the resources available to law enforcement and helping in their mission to set the standard for combating illegal immigration.”
Beyond the recruitment bonus, Florida offers law enforcement officers competitive benefits, including financial stability, career advancement opportunities, comprehensive health and retirement plans, student loan forgiveness programs, and home loan programs.
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