CS/CS/SB 714 — Resource Information for Individuals with Disabilities
by Rules Committee; Children, Families, and Elder Affairs Committee; and Senator Taddeo
This summary is provided for information only and does not represent the opinion of any Senator, Senate Officer, or Senate Office.
Prepared by: Children, Families, and Elder Affairs Committee (CF)
The bill directs the Agency for Persons with Disabilities (the APD) to provide individuals applying for Medicaid Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS) Waiver services, regardless of eligibility for such services, with the following information:
- A brief overview of vocational rehabilitation services offered through the Florida Division of Vocational Rehabilitation;
- A brief overview of the Florida Achieving a Better Life Experience (ABLE) Program;
- A brief overview of supplemental social security and social security disability benefits;
- A statement indicating that an applicant’s local public school district may provide specialized instructional services, including transition programs, for students with special education needs;
- A brief overview of programs and services funded through the Center for Students with Unique Abilities, including contact information for each state approved Florida Postsecondary Comprehensive Transition Program;
- A brief overview of decision-making options for persons with developmental disabilities, guardianship programs, and alternatives to guardianship;
- A brief overview of referral tools made available through the APD; and
- A statement indicating that some waiver providers may serve private pay individuals.
The bill requires that the APD provide the information in writing to the applicant, their parent, legal guardian, or a family member annually.
The bill also requires the APD to provide a written disclosure stating that each program and service has its own eligibility requirements and that the APD does not guarantee eligibility or enrollment for the applicant in any program or service. The bill directs the APD to post the information and disclaimer statement on the agency’s website.
If approved by the Governor, these provisions take effect July 1, 2021.
Vote: Senate 40-0; House 118-0