Florida State Senator Blaise Ingoglia (R-Spring Hill) and Florida Representative J.J. Grow (R-Inverness) have filed SB 532 and HB 445, which would exempt 100% disabled veterans from payment of tolls statewide. Disabled veterans would not have to pay tolls if they are "service-connected disabled from any branch of the United States Armed Services."
State Sen. Ingoglia stated that this bill changing the toll system for disabled veterans confirms the Sunshine State as "the most veteran-friendly" in the Union and this legislation would reward those who've sacrificed for the country.
“Throughout the years, I’ve worked alongside the legislature and Governor Ron DeSantis to ensure Florida remains the most veteran-friendly state to live, work and play. I am honored to sponsor a piece of legislation that will allow 100% disabled veterans to travel the state toll-free. Our valued veterans community, over 50,000 strong in my district, have sacrificed and served our great country honorably, this bill will be a small token of gratitude for their selfless service,” said State Sen. Ingoglia.
Furthermore, State Rep. Grow mentioned that his home county also includes a large number of veterans who have a chance to be recognized for their service through an exemption of tolls.
“Citrus County is home to over 15,000 veterans who have served our country with bravery and integrity. It is an absolute honor to represent them in Tallahassee," said State Rep. Grow. "One of my top priorities is ensuring we do everything possible for them. Eliminating tolls for those who are 100% disabled is a way to reaffirm our unwavering commitment to our community.”
Governor Ron DeSantis (R-FL) has been proud of his toll exemptions for Floridians in the past. During a press conference from earlier last year, Gov. DeSantis announced additional toll relief for Florida citizens, lauding the nearly $1 billion in relief allowed in two years.
"Starting today, on April 1, you are getting toll relief in the state of Florida for all of our commuters," DeSantis said.
"We were able in 2023 to do the most significant toll relief program in the history of the state—we were able to rebate 50% of all the tolls for our commuters on a monthly basis," he added, referencing the 2023 program in which 1.2 million drivers per month saved a total of $385 million on Florida highways.
