The proposed bill establishes the "Hope Florida Act," which aims to create a comprehensive support system for needy individuals and families in Florida. It introduces a new section in the Florida Statutes, Part IV of chapter 23, consisting of five sections (23.41 to 23.45). The bill outlines the goals of Hope Florida, which include streamlining access to services, facilitating coordination among state agencies, and breaking down silos to create a seamless network of support. It also defines key terms such as "Hope Navigators," who will assist participants in navigating available resources, and establishes the Hope Florida Office within the Executive Office of the Governor to oversee the initiative.
The bill mandates that the Hope Florida Office develop care plans for participants, which will include actionable steps and timelines to help them achieve their goals. It specifies eligibility requirements for participants, emphasizing that participation is voluntary. Additionally, the bill requires the involvement of various state agencies and encourages the use of existing resources to implement the program effectively. The Hope Navigators will be embedded in communities to provide personalized support, and the initiative will also include a statewide toll-free hotline and a dedicated website for assistance. The act is set to take effect upon becoming law.