This bill amends various sections of Florida Statutes to enhance dental care, medical marijuana regulations, and early intervention services for children with disabilities. It revises the definition of "dental health professional shortage area" to encompass geographic areas, special populations, or facilities designated by the Health Resources and Services Administration. A new definition for "low-income" is introduced, while the previous definition of "medically underserved area" is removed. The bill also updates eligibility requirements for the Dental Student Loan Repayment Program, emphasizing service provision to low-income patients. In the medical marijuana sector, it modifies the definition of "low-THC cannabis," establishes new approval requirements for qualified physicians, and prohibits the establishment of medical marijuana facilities near parks, child care facilities, and schools, although local governments may approve such locations under certain conditions.

Additionally, the bill streamlines support for children with disabilities by creating statewide uniform protocols for transitioning them from the Early Steps Extended Option to school district programs, removing the previous requirement for local program offices to initiate transition planning. It introduces a provision for the emergency suspension of health care practitioners' licenses if arrested for murder-related offenses. The bill also mandates the development of an autism micro-credential at the University of Florida's Center for Autism and Neurodevelopment, aimed at providing specialized training for educational personnel and early intervention service providers. This micro-credential will be stackable with existing autism endorsements and offered at no cost to eligible participants, focusing on competencies related to autism-related behaviors and evidence-based instructional practices. The bill is set to take effect on July 1, 2026.

Statutes affected:
S 902 Filed: 391.3081, 1004.551