This bill amends the definition of autism in section 393.063 of the Florida Statutes. The revised definition now states that "autism and autism spectrum disorder mean a condition as defined by the most recent edition of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders of the American Psychiatric Association." This change replaces the previous definition, which described autism as a pervasive, neurologically based developmental disability characterized by severe learning, communication, and behavior disorders that begin in infancy or childhood.

The bill aims to align the legal definition of autism with contemporary medical standards and terminology. It is set to take effect on July 1, 2026.

Statutes affected:
S 1652 Filed: 393.063