House Bill 1457 proposes comprehensive reforms to the management and delivery of aging and disability services in Florida. The bill repeals section 400.0067, which relates to the State Long-Term Care Ombudsman Council, and amends various sections of Florida Statutes to revise Medicaid enrollment requirements for long-term care services. Key provisions include the establishment of a statewide preenrollment list managed by the Department of Elderly Affairs, the introduction of a frailty-based screening tool for prioritizing enrollment, and new responsibilities for the Department, such as designating area agencies on aging and providing direct services when necessary. Additionally, the bill enhances financial management protocols for area agencies on aging, including salary caps for administrative employees and competitive procurement requirements.

Furthermore, HB 1457 expands the scope of aging and disability resource centers to include both aging and disability services, mandates the establishment of governing bodies for these centers, and introduces the Florida Alzheimer's Center of Excellence to improve care for individuals with Alzheimer's disease. The bill also strengthens the regulatory framework for professional guardianship by raising the minimum fiduciary bond requirement and introducing new grounds for disciplinary actions. It emphasizes transparency and accountability within public guardian offices, requiring strict disclosure of conflicts of interest and annual independent audits. Overall, the bill aims to improve the quality, accessibility, and oversight of community care services for Florida's elderly and disabled populations.

Statutes affected:
H 1457 Filed: 430.03, 430.04, 430.2053, 430.503, 430.605, 430.901, 744.2004, 744.2103, 744.3701, 744.441, 400.0060, 400.0065, 400.0073, 400.0087, 430.504