The bill amends various sections of Florida Statutes concerning mental health and substance use disorders, with a primary focus on improving assessment and treatment standards. It mandates the use of the Daily Living Activities-20 (DLA-20) functional assessment tool for patients requiring functional assessments and revises the minimum standards for mobile crisis response services to include specialized training for older adults and protocols for timely intervention. Additionally, it requires facilities to update treatment plans within specified timeframes and ensure comprehensive discharge planning that addresses medication needs, including long-acting injectable medications. The bill also emphasizes the use of person-first language and trauma-informed care in mental health services.

Moreover, the bill establishes the Florida Center for Behavioral Health Workforce within the Louis de la Parte Florida Mental Health Institute, which will research workforce needs, project future demands, and develop strategies to address gaps in the behavioral health workforce. It mandates that each school district implement a mental health assistance program that includes staff training to detect and respond to mental health issues, utilizing the DLA-20 assessment tool, and ensuring timely access to mental health services for students. The overall aim of the bill is to enhance the quality and accessibility of mental health services across Florida, particularly within schools, to ensure that students receive appropriate care in a timely manner.

Statutes affected:
H 1439 Filed: 394.457, 394.459, 394.467, 394.495, 394.659, 394.9086, 1004.44, 1006.041, 394.9085
H 1439 c1: 394.459, 394.468, 394.659, 1004.44, 1006.041