This bill seeks to improve mental health and substance use disorder services in Florida by amending various sections of the Florida Statutes. It introduces the definition of "person-first language" to prioritize individuals over their disabilities and establishes minimum standards for mobile crisis response services. The legislation mandates that individualized treatment plans be reevaluated every six months and requires service providers to supply necessary medications upon patient discharge. Additionally, the Department of Children and Families is tasked with conducting biennial reviews to identify counties that require more resources for short-term residential treatment facilities.

Further enhancements include the establishment of the Florida Center for Behavioral Health Workforce and the Center for Substance Abuse and Mental Health Research, which aim to address workforce needs and improve care quality. The bill also mandates school districts to implement a school-based mental health assistance program, focusing on training staff to identify and respond to mental health issues. The Department of Children and Families, in collaboration with the Department of Education, will review effective models of school-based behavioral health access every two years, particularly in underserved and rural areas. The act is set to take effect on July 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
S 1620 Filed: 394.457, 394.459, 394.468, 394.495, 394.659, 394.9086, 1004.44, 1006.041, 394.9085