The bill CS/CS/HB 591 amends Florida Statutes to improve support for children with developmental disabilities, particularly autism. It expands the Dr. and Mrs. Alfonse and Kathleen Cinotti Health Care Screening and Services Grant Program to include funding for autism screenings and introduces the Early Steps Extended Option, allowing eligible children to receive services beyond age three. The Department of Health is responsible for seeking federal approval for this option and ensuring smooth transitions to educational services. Key definitions are updated, and local school districts are required to inform parents about their rights and eligibility for services. The bill also mandates performance assessments of the Early Steps Extended Option to be included in annual reports.

Additionally, the bill establishes specialized charter schools and summer programs for students with autism, creating new sections 1003.5711 and 1003.5712. These sections provide for startup grants for autism charter schools and structured summer programs, respectively, with oversight from the University of Florida Center for Autism and Neurodevelopment. The legislation outlines eligibility requirements for grant applicants and specifies the use of funds for various educational purposes. Furthermore, it enhances professional development requirements for instructional personnel, mandating a review of curricula related to supporting students with autism and specifying new renewal requirements for professional certificates that include training in this area. Overall, the bill aims to enhance educational opportunities and support services for children with autism in Florida.

Statutes affected:
H 591 Filed: 381.9855, 391.302, 391.308, 1012.585
H 591 c1: 381.9855, 391.302, 391.308, 1012.585
H 591 c2: 381.9855, 391.302, 391.308, 1012.585