The bill aims to address and reduce racial and ethnic disparities in mental health and substance abuse services in Florida. It amends section 381.7355 of the Florida Statutes by adding a new priority area that specifically targets the reduction of disparities in morbidity and mortality rates related to mental health and substance abuse disorders. Additionally, it revises the project requirements and review criteria for the Closing the Gap grant program to include these services, thereby expanding the focus of the program to encompass a broader range of health disparities.

Furthermore, the bill designates priority for proposals that represent areas with the greatest documented racial and ethnic disparities in the provision of mental health and substance abuse services. This legislative change is set to take effect on July 1, 2025, reflecting a commitment to improving health equity in these critical areas.