The bill aims to improve the medical placement process for high-acuity children, defined as those aged birth to 18 with complex medical, developmental, behavioral health, or disability needs. Key amendments require the Department of Children and Families and other agencies to consider the specific needs of these children when determining placements and establish a multidisciplinary team to facilitate placement decisions. The bill mandates that reports involving high-acuity children be referred to Child Protection Teams for tailored assessments and services. It also introduces provisions for comprehensive clinical assessments and emergency evidentiary hearings if suitable placements are not identified within specified timeframes, emphasizing the prioritization of medical necessity over other standards.

Additionally, the bill establishes the "Medical Placement for High-acuity Children Act," which outlines a structured, court-supervised process for medical placements, ensuring timely assessments and maintaining educational services. It includes guidelines for emergency procedures for moving high-acuity children to more restrictive settings, requiring court notification and hearings within specified timelines. The legislation affirms the rights of high-acuity children in medical placements, mandates data collection related to the act, and emphasizes the importance of a comprehensive placement assessment process. The act is set to take effect on July 1, 2026, and includes various amendments to Florida Statutes to enhance support and services for high-acuity children.

Statutes affected:
S 1560 Filed: 39.302, 39.4021, 391.029, 393.065, 409.166, 934.255, 960.065, 984.03