The bill amends section 461.007 of the Florida Statutes to revise continuing education requirements for podiatric physicians, specifically mandating a minimum of 2 hours of education related to the safe and effective prescribing of controlled substances for those registered with the United States Drug Enforcement Administration. Additionally, the bill creates a new section, 461.011, which authorizes podiatric physicians to perform stem cell therapy under certain conditions. This includes stipulations regarding the ethical sourcing of stem cells, requirements for obtaining patient consent, and advertising guidelines for such therapies.

The new legislation emphasizes the importance of ethical standards in stem cell therapy, explicitly prohibiting the use of stem cells derived from aborted fetuses. It outlines the necessary certifications for facilities from which stem cells can be obtained, mandates that physicians provide clear notices in advertisements regarding the unapproved status of certain therapies, and requires signed consent forms from patients that detail the nature of the treatment and associated risks. Violations of these provisions could result in disciplinary action and criminal penalties for podiatric physicians. The act is set to take effect on July 1, 2026.

Statutes affected:
H 567 Filed: 461.007