FL H1285

Creates the Division of the State Guard within the Department of Military Affairs, headed by a director appointed by the Governor who must have at least 5 years of military service experience

Increases the authorized maximum personnel of the Florida State Guard from 400 to 1,500 volunteer members

Establishes a specialized unit within the Florida State Guard whose members may bear arms, detect, and apprehend while activated, with those certified as law enforcement officers having full law enforcement authority when working with other agencies

Requires members to be U.S. citizens, Florida residents, pass criminal background checks, have no felony convictions, and not be active duty military or National Guard members

Allows activation by the Governor during declared emergencies to preserve public peace, respond to threats, augment state/local agencies, or provide support to other states under the Emergency Management Assistance Compact