The bill establishes two significant entities within the University of South Florida aimed at advancing research and care for Parkinson's disease. The first entity is the Consortium for Parkinson's Disease Research, which will conduct scientific research and disseminate findings. This consortium will be overseen by the Parkinson's Disease Research Board, responsible for directing operations, adopting an annual research plan, and issuing reports to the Governor and Legislature. The board will consist of members from participating universities and medical centers, appointed based on their expertise in relevant scientific fields. The consortium's director will be tasked with proposing budgets, fostering collaboration, and identifying research priorities.
The second entity created by the bill is the Florida Institute for Parkinson's Disease, which will serve as a statewide resource for research and clinical care. Its primary purpose is to find a cure for Parkinson's disease and enhance the quality of life for those affected by it through research, clinical care, education, and advocacy. The provisions of the bill will be implemented as funding becomes available in the General Appropriations Act, and the act is set to take effect on July 1, 2025.