The bill HB 1121 proposes comprehensive reforms to Florida's aging and disability services, including the repeal of section 400.0067, which relates to the State Long-Term Care Ombudsman Council. It amends section 409.979 to change the terminology from "wait-list" to "preenrollment list" for Medicaid recipients seeking long-term care services, requiring the Department of Elderly Affairs to maintain this list. The bill also mandates that personnel from aging and disability resource centers conduct screenings to determine eligibility for long-term care managed care programs. Additionally, it introduces a new "Respite for Elders Living in Everyday Families" (RELIEF) program to provide in-home assistance to elderly individuals living with family members, broadening the definition of "family unit" and adjusting eligibility criteria to focus on the elderly individual's needs.

Furthermore, the bill enhances the services provided by aging resource centers by expanding their focus to include adults with disabilities, establishing a coordinated approach for information and referral services. It outlines the responsibilities of these centers, including developing referral agreements and conducting initial screenings for service eligibility. The bill also introduces new regulations for area agencies on aging, emphasizing competitive procurement and limiting administrative salaries. It establishes the Florida Alzheimer's Center of Excellence to improve care quality for individuals with Alzheimer's and modifies the roles of the Office of Public and Professional Guardians, including enhanced educational requirements and compliance monitoring. Overall, HB 1121 aims to improve the quality, accessibility, and efficiency of services for Florida's elderly population and adults with disabilities.

Statutes affected:
H 1121 Filed: 409.983, 430.03, 430.04, 430.071, 430.2053, 430.503, 430.605, 430.901, 744.2003, 744.2004, 400.0060, 400.0065, 400.0073, 400.0087, 430.504