The proposed bill establishes the "Parkinsons Disease Research Act" and creates a new section in Florida law, specifically Section 1004.4352, which outlines the formation of the Consortium for Parkinsons Disease Research at the University of South Florida. This consortium will consist of public and private universities and academic medical centers, aimed at conducting scientific research on Parkinson's disease. The bill also establishes the Parkinsons Disease Research Board, which will oversee the consortium's operations, appoint members with diverse scientific expertise, and direct research efforts. The board is tasked with developing an annual research plan, awarding funds for research, and issuing an annual report to the Governor and Legislature.
Additionally, the bill allocates funding for Parkinson's disease research, specifying that 67% of appropriated funds will go to the University of South Florida for research purposes, including identifying the genetic origins of the disease and developing therapeutic interventions. The remaining 33% will support the operations of the Consortium for Parkinsons Disease Research. The act is set to take effect on July 1, 2025.