This bill amends existing Florida law regarding the Agency for Persons with Disabilities, specifically focusing on the employment screening of staff in residential facilities and adult day training programs. It mandates level 2 employment screening for all employees, replacing the previous requirement that only managers and supervisors undergo such screening. The bill also establishes background screening requirements that include employment history checks and local criminal records checks. Additionally, the agency is required to contract with a state university to develop and administer surveys aimed at enhancing the quality and consistency of waiver support coordination services, with a final report due by October 1, 2026.

Furthermore, the bill revises the definition of "developmental disability" to include Tatton-Brown-Rahman syndrome, which is defined in detail within the legislation. The agency is tasked with conducting public hearings to gather input from stakeholders and performing a gap analysis to assess the distribution and capacity of waiver support coordinators. By February 15, 2027, the agency must submit a report to the Governor and legislative leaders detailing its findings and recommendations based on the information collected. The act is set to take effect upon becoming law, with certain provisions effective July 1, 2026.

Statutes affected:
S 794 Filed: 393.0655, 393.0663, 393.0673
S 794 c1: 393.0655