Bill > S0702

This bill establishes a Gun Violence Prevention Pilot Program in Gainesville, Florida, targeting youth and young adults aged 10-21 who are at risk of being victims or perpetrators of gun violence. The program, to be developed and implemented by IMPACT GNV in collaboration with the Department of Juvenile Justice, state attorney, and public defender, will provide comprehensive mental health services including individual and group therapy, trauma-focused counseling, art and music therapies, substance abuse treatment, and mediation training. Eligible participants include youth at moderate or high risk of gun violence or returning from delinquency programs, as well as their family members. The program will offer alternatives to incarceration, such as GED opportunities, job training, and employment assistance. Participants will be referred through various legal offices, and the program will be required to submit annual reports detailing participant numbers, gun violence impact, and program effectiveness. The pilot program is funded with $500,000 in nonrecurring funds and is set to run until June 30, 2030, with the goal of addressing mental health challenges and conflict resolution among young people to prevent gun violence.

https://www.flsenate.gov/Session/Bill/2026/702