The bill, titled the "Bridging Systems to Housing Act," aims to improve discharge procedures for individuals leaving certain facilities or institutions to prevent homelessness. It amends Section 420.626 of the Florida Statutes to encourage collaboration between facilities and Continuum of Care lead agencies in developing procedures that ensure individuals are not discharged into homelessness without proper connections to housing resources. The Department of Children and Families is tasked with conducting a pilot program in Broward, Duval, Hillsborough, and Pinellas Counties, which includes submitting quarterly and annual reports on the program's effectiveness.

Key provisions of the bill include the requirement for facilities to implement a screening process to identify individuals at risk of homelessness, develop discharge plans that connect individuals to local Continuum of Care resources, and ensure the sharing of client-level data while complying with privacy laws. The bill also mandates that facilities provide necessary resources upon discharge and evaluate their procedures annually to identify areas for improvement. The intent is to create a structured approach to discharges that prioritizes the well-being of individuals and reduces the risk of homelessness. The act is set to take effect on July 1, 2026.

Statutes affected:
H 1033 Filed: 420.626