The bill amends section 413.014 of the Florida Statutes to establish minimum standards for community rehabilitation programs seeking to enter into cooperative agreements with the Division of Blind Services. It outlines specific requirements that these programs must meet, including being a qualified nonprofit agency for the blind, maintaining current accreditation from recognized organizations, employing certified staff, and providing a range of services such as daily living activities, assistive technology training, and vocational rehabilitation. The director of the division is also granted the authority to temporarily waive certain requirements for new community rehabilitation programs.

Additionally, the bill designates community rehabilitation programs that meet the specified requirements as priority service providers for funding purposes. It allows the division to enter into agreements with noncommunity rehabilitation program private vendors under certain circumstances, ensuring that clients receive high-quality services. The Florida Association of Agencies Serving the Blind, Inc. is tasked with coordinating efforts to meet the needs of blind and visually impaired clients and may request funding from the Legislature for community rehabilitation programs. The act is set to take effect on July 1, 2026.

Statutes affected:
H 897 Filed: 413.014