House Bill 1229 establishes a regulatory framework for "Medically Complex Children's Homes" in Florida, creating Part XII of Chapter 400 of the Florida Statutes. The bill outlines definitions, licensure requirements, application processes, and eligibility criteria for these homes, which cater to medically or technologically dependent children. The Agency for Health Care Administration (AHCA) is tasked with overseeing the licensing process, conducting inspections, and ensuring compliance with safety and health standards. The legislation also details the conditions for issuing provisional and conditional licenses, as well as the requirements for background screenings of personnel.

In addition to these provisions, the bill mandates a written order from the child's attending physician for Medicaid recipients and requires the Children's Multidisciplinary Assessment Team to make placement recommendations based on various factors. It introduces uniform fire safety standards, including the installation of onsite generators and automatic fire sprinkler systems, along with annual fire inspections. The bill also establishes a framework for the denial, suspension, and revocation of licenses for violations, enhances the background screening process for care providers, and specifies in-person visitation requirements. The act is set to take effect on July 1, 2026.

Statutes affected:
H 1229 Filed: 435.12, 408.823