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2025 Florida Statutes

Title XLVII CRIMINAL PROCEDURE AND CORRECTIONS
Chapter 945
DEPARTMENT OF CORRECTIONS
CHAPTER 945
CHAPTER 945
DEPARTMENT OF CORRECTIONS
945.01 Definitions.
945.025 Jurisdiction of department.
945.0311 Employment of relatives.
945.035 Notice of employment, appointment, or separation; response by the correctional officer; duty of department.
945.04 Department of Corrections; general function; seal; use of inmate labor.
945.041 Reports.
945.043 Department-operated day care services.
945.047 Licensing requirements for physicians, osteopathic physicians, and chiropractic physicians employed by the department.
945.091 Extension of the limits of confinement; restitution by employed inmates.
945.0913 Inmates prohibited from driving state-owned vehicles to transport inmates in a work-release program.
945.092 Limits on work-release and minimum security custody for persons who have committed the crime of escape.
945.093 Requirements for work assignments and programs.
945.10 Confidential information.
945.12 Transfers for rehabilitative treatment.
945.215 Inmate welfare and employee benefit trust funds.
945.21501 Employee Benefit Trust Fund.
945.21503 Federal Grants Trust Fund.
945.2151 Verifying social security numbers.
945.25 Records.
945.27 Proceedings by department.
945.28 Selection of probation or parole offices by the department; public notice.
945.31 Restitution and other payments.
945.35 Requirement for education on human immunodeficiency virus, acquired immune deficiency syndrome, and other communicable diseases.
945.355 HIV testing of inmates prior to release.
945.36 Law enforcement personnel authorized to conduct drug tests on inmates and releasees.
945.40 Corrections Mental Health Act; short title for ss. 945.40-945.49.
945.41 Mental health treatment for inmates; legislative intent of ss. 945.40-945.49.
945.42 Definitions; ss. 945.40-945.49.
945.43 Involuntary examination.
945.44 Placement and treatment of an inmate in a mental health treatment facility.
945.46 Initiation of involuntary placement proceedings with respect to a mentally ill inmate scheduled for release.
945.47 Discharge of inmate from mental health treatment.
945.48 Emergency treatment orders and use of force.
945.485 Management and treatment for self-injurious behaviors.
945.49 Operation and administration.
945.601 Correctional Medical Authority; ss. 945.601-945.6035, definitions.
945.602 State of Florida Correctional Medical Authority; creation; members.
945.603 Powers and duties of authority.
945.6031 Required reports and surveys.
945.6032 Quality management program requirements.
945.6033 Continuing contracts with health care providers.
945.6034 Minimum health care standards.
945.6035 Dispute resolution.
945.6036 Enforcement.
945.6037 Nonemergency health care; inmate copayments.
945.6038 Inmate litigation costs.
945.604 Medical claims.
945.6041 Inmate medical services.
945.6402 Inmate health care advance directives.
945.71 Inmate training programs; intent and purposes.
945.72 Eligibility and screening of inmates.
945.73 Inmate training program operation.
945.74 Implementation.
945.01 Definitions.—As used herein, the following terms shall have the meanings ascribed to them unless the context shall clearly indicate otherwise:
(1) “Correctional system” means all prisons and other correctional institutions now existing or hereafter created under the jurisdiction of the department.
(2) “Department” means the Department of Corrections.
(3) “Secretary” means the Secretary of Corrections.
(4) “Reception center” means a temporary custodial institution for offenders committed to the department for classification and assignment to an appropriate institution in the correctional system.
History.—s. 1, ch. 57-213; s. 18, ch. 61-530; ss. 19, 35, ch. 69-106; ss. 1, 2, ch. 70-441; s. 283, ch. 71-377; s. 68, ch. 77-120; s. 77, ch. 79-3.
945.025 Jurisdiction of department.—
(1) The Department of Corrections shall have supervisory and protective care, custody, and control of the inmates, buildings, grounds, property, and all other matters pertaining to the following facilities and programs for the imprisonment, correction, and rehabilitation of adult offenders:
(a) Department of Corrections adult correctional institutions;
(b) Department of Corrections youthful offender institutions;
(c) Department of Corrections Mental Health Treatment Facility;
(d) Department of Corrections Probation and Restitution Center;
(e) Department of Corrections community correctional centers; and
(f) Department of Corrections vocational centers.
(2) In establishing, operating, and using these facilities, the department shall attempt, whenever possible, to avoid the placement of nondangerous offenders who have potential for rehabilitation with repeat offenders or dangerous offenders. Medical, mental, and psychological problems must be diagnosed and treated whenever possible. The Department of Children and Families and the Agency for Persons with Disabilities shall cooperate to ensure the delivery of services to persons under the custody or supervision of the department. If the department intends to transfer a prisoner who has a mental illness or intellectual disability to the Department of Children and Families or the Agency for Persons with Disabilities, an involuntary commitment hearing shall be held in accordance with chapter 393 or chapter 394.
(3) There shall be other correctional facilities, including detention facilities of varying levels of security, work-release facilities, and community correctional facilities, halfway houses, and other approved community residential and nonresidential facilities and programs; however, no adult correctional facility may be established by changing the use and purpose of any mental health facility or mental health institution under the jurisdiction of any state agency or department without authorization in the General Appropriation Act or other approval by the Legislature. Any community residential facility may be deemed a part of the state correctional system for purposes of maintaining custody of offenders, and for this purpose the department may contract for and purchase the services of such facilities.
(4) Nothing contained in chapter 287 shall be construed as requiring competitive bids for health services involving examination, diagnosis, or treatment.
History.—s. 1, ch. 57-317; s. 1, ch. 67-99; ss. 19, 35, ch. 69-106; ss. 1, 2, ch. 70-441; s. 26, ch. 74-112; s. 14, ch. 75-49; s. 1, ch. 76-232; s. 69, ch. 77-120; s. 475, ch. 77-147; s. 6, ch. 77-312; s. 78, ch. 79-3; s. 8, ch. 80-374; s. 1, ch. 83-46; s. 2, ch. 83-346; s. 6, ch. 87-87; s. 76, ch. 87-226; s. 313, ch. 99-8; s. 65, ch. 2006-227; s. 41, ch. 2013-162; s. 323, ch. 2014-19.
Note.—Former s. 965.01(1).
945.0311 Employment of relatives.—
(1) For the purposes of this section, the term:
(a) “Department” means the Department of Corrections.
(b) “Relative” means an individual who is related to another as father, mother, son, daughter, brother, sister, uncle, aunt, first cousin, nephew, niece, husband, wife, father-in-law, mother-in-law, daughter-in-law, brother-in-law, sister-in-law, stepfather, stepmother, stepson, stepdaughter, stepbrother, stepsister, half brother, or half sister.
(c) “Organizational unit” includes:
1. A unit of a state correctional institution such as security, medical, dental, classification, maintenance, personnel, or business. A work camp, boot camp, or other annex of a state correctional institution is considered part of the institution and not a separate unit.
2. An area of a regional office such as personnel, medical, administrative services, probation and parole, or community facilities.
3. A correctional work center, road prison, or work release center.
4. A probation and parole circuit office or a suboffice within a circuit.
5. A bureau of the Office of the Secretary or of any of the assistant secretaries.
(d) “Line of authority” means any position having supervisory authority within the direct chain of command or supervisory path that organizationally links any position in the department to the secretary.
(e) “Direct supervision” means being an employee’s immediate supervisor, or the rater or reviewer of the employee’s performance.
(2) In the interest of security and effective management, the department may adopt rules prohibiting the employment of relatives in the same organizational unit or in positions in which one employee would be in the line of authority over the other or under the direct supervision of the other.
History.—s. 25, ch. 95-283.
945.035 Notice of employment, appointment, or separation; response by the correctional officer; duty of department.—
(1) For the purposes of this section, the term “commission” refers to the Criminal Justice Standards and Training Commission.
(2) Pursuant to s. 943.139, the department shall immediately notify the commission in writing, on a form adopted by the commission, of the employment or appointment, or separation from employment or appointment, of any correctional officer. The department must maintain the form and submit, or electronically transmit, a copy of the form to the commission. “Separation from employment or appointment” includes any firing, termination, resignation, retirement, or voluntary or involuntary extended leave of absence of any correctional officer.
(3) In a case of separation from employment or appointment, the department shall execute and maintain an affidavit-of-separation form adopted by the commission, setting forth in detail the facts and reasons for such separation. A copy of the affidavit-of-separation form must be submitted, or electronically transmitted, to the commission. If the correctional officer is separated for failure to comply with s. 943.13, the notice must so specify. The affidavit must be executed under oath and constitutes an official statement within the purview of s. 837.06. The affidavit must include conspicuous language that intentional false execution of the affidavit constitutes a misdemeanor of the second degree. Any correctional officer who has separated from employment or appointment must be permitted to respond to the separation, in writing, to the commission, setting forth the facts and reasons for the separation as the officer understands them.
(4) Before employing or appointing any correctional officer, the department must contact the commission to inquire as to the facts and reasons an officer became separated from any previous employing agency. The commission shall, upon request and without prejudice, provide to the department all information that is required under subsections (2) and (3) and that is in its possession.
(5) An administrator of the department who discloses information pursuant to this section is immune from civil liability in accordance with the provisions of s. 768.095.
History.—s. 53, ch. 96-312; s. 13, ch. 2019-113.
945.04 Department of Corrections; general function; seal; use of inmate labor.—
(1) The Department of Corrections shall be responsible for the inmates and for the operation of, and shall have supervisory and protective care, custody, and control of, all buildings, grounds, property of, and matters connected with, the correctional system.
(2) The Department of Corrections may adopt an official seal to be used for the purpose of authenticating its official documents and for such other purposes as the department prescribes.
(3) The Department of Corrections shall maximize the use of inmate labor in the construction of inmate housing and the conduct of all maintenance projects so that such activities provide work opportunities for the optimum number of inmates in the most cost-effective manner.
History.—s. 4, ch. 57-213; s. 18, ch. 61-530; s. 71, ch. 77-120; s. 80, ch. 79-3; s. 8, ch. 85-288; s. 26, ch. 95-283; s. 19, ch. 97-93; s. 12, ch. 97-227.
945.041 Reports.—The department shall publish on its website and make available to the public the following information, updated on a quarterly basis:
(1) Inmate admissions by offense type. Burglary of dwelling offenses under s. 810.02(2) and (3)(a) and (b) shall be reported as a separate category from all other property crimes.
(2) The recidivism rate. As used in this subsection, the term “recidivism” means an inmate’s rearrest, reconviction, reincarceration, or probation revocation in the state within a 3-year time period following the inmate’s release from incarceration.
History.—s. 8, ch. 2018-127.
945.043 Department-operated day care services.—
(1) The department shall have the authority to establish and operate child care services for department employees. Child care enhances the department’s ability to recruit and retain employees in remote or understaffed areas. Child care centers must be located on or adjacent to the grounds of an institution or facility, and must be located outside the grounds of the compound area where inmates are housed. Individuals utilizing the child care services are not limited to employees of the department. Employees of other state agencies may also utilize department-operated day care centers. Furthermore, individual day care centers may enter into consortium agreements with their local city or county governments or the Federal Government, permitting centers to admit the children of those city, county, and Federal Government employees. Employees and other individuals who utilize the child care services shall be charged a fee for such services.
(2) The department is exempt from the requirements of s. 110.151.
History.—s. 12, ch. 96-312.
945.047 Licensing requirements for physicians, osteopathic physicians, and chiropractic physicians employed by the department.—
(1) The Department of Corrections shall employ only physicians, osteopathic physicians, or chiropractic physicians holding licenses in good standing to practice medicine in this state, except that, by October 1, 1980, no more than 10 percent of the total number of such physicians employed by the department may be exempted from the provisions of this subsection. Each such exempted physician shall hold a valid license to practice medicine, osteopathic medicine, or chiropractic medicine in another state and shall have been certified by the appropriate board as eligible for admission for examination in this state under chapter 458, chapter 459, or chapter 460, as applicable. The appropriate board shall not certify as eligible for admission for examination any person who has been adjudged unqualified or guilty of any of the acts enumerated in the disciplinary provisions contained in chapter 458, chapter 459, or chapter 460, as applicable.
(2) No person subject to the provisions of this section shall, by virtue of his or her continued employment in accordance with such provisions, be in violation of the unauthorized practice provisions of chapter 458, chapter 459, or chapter 460 during such period of employment.
History.—s. 3, ch. 79-302; s. 1662, ch. 97-102; s. 66, ch. 97-264; s. 299, ch. 98-166.
945.091 Extension of the limits of confinement; restitution by employed inmates.—
(1) The department may adopt rules permitting the extension of the limits of the place of confinement of an inmate as to whom there is reasonable cause to believe that the inmate will honor his or her trust by authorizing the inmate, under prescribed conditions and following investigation and approval by the secretary, or the secretary’s designee, who shall maintain a written record of such action, to leave the confines of that place unaccompanied by a custodial agent for a prescribed period of time to:
(a) Visit, for a specified period, a specifically designated place or places:
1. For the purpose of visiting a dying relative, attending the funeral of a relative, or arranging for employment or for a suitable residence for use when released;
2. To otherwise aid in the rehabilitation of the inmate and his or her successful transition into the community; or
3. For another compelling reason consistent with the public interest,

and return to the same or another institution or facility designated by the Department of Corrections.

(b) Work at paid employment, participate in an education or a training program, or voluntarily serve a public or nonprofit agency or faith-based service group in the community, while continuing as an inmate of the institution or facility in which the inmate is confined, except during the hours of his or her employment, education, training, or service and traveling thereto and therefrom. An inmate may travel to and from his or her place of employment, education, or training only by means of walking, bicycling, or using public transportation or transportation that is provided by a family member or employer. Contingent upon specific appropriations, the department may transport an inmate in a state-owned vehicle if the inmate is unable to obtain other means of travel to his or her place of employment, education, or training.
1. An inmate may participate in paid employment only during the last 36 months of his or her confinement, unless sooner requested by the Florida Commission on Offender Review or the Control Release Authority.
2. While working at paid employment and residing in the facility, an inmate may apply for placement at a contracted substance abuse transition housing program. The transition assistance specialist shall inform the inmate of program availability and assess the inmate’s need and suitability for transition housing assistance. If an inmate is approved for placement, the specialist shall assist the inmate. If an inmate requests and is approved for placement in a contracted faith-based substance abuse transition housing program, the specialist must consult with the chaplain before such placement. The department shall ensure that an inmate’s faith orientation, or lack thereof, will not be considered in determining admission to a faith-based program and that the program does not attempt to convert an inmate toward a particular faith or religious preference.
(c) Participate in a residential or nonresidential rehabilitative program operated by a public or private nonprofit agency, including faith-based service groups, with which the department has contracted for the treatment of such inmate. The provisions of ss. 216.311 and 287.057 shall apply to all contracts between the department and any private entity providing such services. The department shall require such agency to provide appropriate supervision of inmates participating in such program. The department is authorized to terminate any inmate’s participation in the program if such inmate fails to demonstrate satisfactory progress in the program as established by departmental rules.
(2) Each inmate who demonstrates college-level aptitudes by satisfactory evidence of successful completion of college-level academic coursework may be provided the opportunity to participate in college-level academic programs which may be offered at community colleges or universities. The inmate is personally responsible for the payment of all student fees incurred.
(3) The department may adopt regulations as to the eligibility of inmates for the extension of confinement, the disbursement of any earnings of these inmates, or the entering into of agreements between itself and any city or county or federal agency for the housing of these inmates in a local place of confinement. However, no person convicted of sexual battery pursuant to s. 794.011 is eligible for any extension of the limits of confinement under this section.
(4) The willful failure of an inmate to remain within the extended limits of his or her confinement or to return within the time prescribed to the place of confinement designated by the department shall be deemed as an escape from the custody of the department and shall be punishable as prescribed by law.
(5) The provisions of this section shall not be deemed to authorize any inmate who has been convicted of any murder, manslaughter, sexual battery, robbery, arson, aggravated assault, aggravated battery, kidnapping, escape, breaking and entering with intent to commit a felony, or aircraft piracy, or any attempt to commit the aforementioned crimes, to attend any classes at any Florida College System institution or any university which is a part of the State University System.
(6)(a) The department shall require inmates working at paid employment as provided in paragraph (1)(b) to use a portion of the employment proceeds to provide restitution to the aggrieved party for the damage or loss caused by the offense of the inmate, in an amount to be determined by the department, unless the department finds clear and compelling reasons not to order such restitution. If restitution or partial restitution is not ordered, the department shall state on the record in detail the reasons therefor.
(b) An offender who is required to provide restitution or reparation may petition the circuit court to amend the amount of restitution or reparation required or to revise the schedule of repayment established by the department or the Florida Commission on Offender Review.
(7) The department shall document and account for all forms for disciplinary reports for inmates placed on extended limits of confinement, which shall include, but not be limited to, all violations of rules of conduct, the rule or rules violated, the nature of punishment administered, the authority ordering such punishment, and the duration of time during which the inmate was subjected to confinement.
(8)(a) The department is authorized to levy fines only through disciplinary reports and only against inmates placed on extended limits of confinement. Major and minor infractions and their respective punishments for inmates placed on extended limits of confinement shall be defined by the rules of the department, provided that any fine shall not exceed $50 for each infraction deemed to be minor and $100 for each infraction deemed to be major. Such fines shall be deposited in the General Revenue Fund, and a receipt shall be given to the inmate.
(b) When the chief correctional officer determines that a fine would be an appropriate punishment for a violation of the rules of the department, both the determination of guilt and the amount of the fine shall be determined by the disciplinary committee pursuant to the method prescribed in s. 944.28(2)(c).
(c) The department shall develop rules defining the policies and procedures for the administering of such fines.
History.—s. 1, ch. 67-59; s. 1, ch. 69-6; ss. 19, 35, ch. 69-106; s. 1, ch. 71-112; s. 9, ch. 76-273; s. 74, ch. 77-120; s. 4, ch. 77-150; s. 86, ch. 79-3; s. 2, ch. 83-274; s. 2, ch. 83-290; s. 7, ch. 84-363; s. 9, ch. 85-288; s. 8, ch. 85-340; s. 2, ch. 86-46; s. 12, ch. 88-96; ss. 55, 88, ch. 88-122; s. 32, ch. 90-268; s. 1, ch. 92-27; s. 21, ch. 93-156; s. 27, ch. 95-283; s. 13, ch. 96-312; s. 1857, ch. 97-102; s. 14, ch. 2001-110; s. 1, ch. 2003-141; s. 9, ch. 2003-179; s. 171, ch. 2014-17; s. 36, ch. 2014-191.
945.0913 Inmates prohibited from driving state-owned vehicles to transport inmates in a work-release program.—An inmate may not drive a state-owned vehicle for the purpose of transporting inmates who are participating in a work-release program authorized in s. 945.091(1)(b).
History.—s. 2, ch. 2003-141.
945.092 Limits on work-release and minimum security custody for persons who have committed the crime of escape.—A person who has ever been convicted, regardless of adjudication, of the offense of escape, as prohibited by s. 944.40 or its successor, or as prohibited by a similar law of another state, is not eligible for any work-release program under s. 945.091 or for confinement in minimum security conditions.
History.—s. 29, ch. 95-283.
945.093 Requirements for work assignments and programs.—The department shall evaluate, at a minimum, the physical and mental health of each inmate eligible for a work assignment or correctional work program and shall document approval of eligibility before the inmate receives orders for the assignment or program. The department may use discretion in determining whether an inmate is appropriate for an assignment.
History.—s. 7, ch. 2025-180.
945.10 Confidential information.—
(1) Except as otherwise provided by law or in this section, the following records and information held by the Department of Corrections are confidential and exempt from the provisions of s. 119.07(1) and s. 24(a), Art. I of the State Constitution:
(a)1. Mental health, medical, or substance abuse records of an inmate or an offender; and
2. Protected health information of an inmate or an offender. Protected health information, as used in this section, has the same meaning as provided in 45 C.F.R. s. 160.103.
(b) Preplea, pretrial intervention, and presentence or postsentence investigative records, except as provided in s. 960.001(1)(g).
(c) Information regarding a person in the federal witness protection program.
(d) Florida Commission on Offender Review records which are confidential or exempt from public disclosure by law.
(e) Information which if released would jeopardize a person’s safety.
(f) Information concerning a victim’s statement and identity.
(g) Information which identifies an executioner, or any person prescribing, preparing, compounding, dispensing, or administering a lethal injection.
(h) The identity of any inmate or offender upon whom an HIV test has been performed and the inmate’s or offender’s test results, in accordance with s. 381.004. The term “HIV test” has the same meaning as provided in s. 381.004.
(i) Records that are otherwise confidential or exempt from public disclosure by law.
(j)1. Information or records that identify or could reasonably lead to the identification of any person or entity that participates in, has participated in, or will participate in an execution, including persons or entities administering, compounding, dispensing, distributing, maintaining, manufacturing, ordering, preparing, prescribing, providing, purchasing, or supplying drugs, chemicals, supplies, or equipment necessary to conduct an execution in compliance with chapter 922.
2. The exemption in subparagraph 1. applies to information and records held by the department before, on, or after the effective date of the exemption.
3. This paragraph is subject to the Open Government Sunset Review Act in accordance with s. 119.15 and shall stand repealed on October 2, 2027, unless reviewed and saved from repeal through reenactment by the Legislature.
(2) The records and information specified in paragraphs (1)(a)-(i) may be released as follows unless expressly prohibited by federal law:
(a) Information specified in paragraphs (1)(b), (d), and (f) to the Executive Office of the Governor, the Legislature, the Florida Commission on Offender Review, the Department of Children and Families, a contractor-operated correctional facility or program that operates under a contract, the Department of Legal Affairs, a state attorney, the court, or a law enforcement agency. A request for records or information pursuant to this paragraph need not be in writing.
(b) Information specified in paragraphs (1)(c), (e), and (i) to the Executive Office of the Governor, the Legislature, the Florida Commission on Offender Review, the Department of Children and Families, a contractor-operated correctional facility or program that operates under contract, the Department of Legal Affairs, a state attorney, the court, or a law enforcement agency. A request for records or information pursuant to this paragraph must be in writing and a statement provided demonstrating a need for the records or information.
(c) Information specified in paragraph (1)(b) to an attorney representing an inmate under sentence of death, except those portions of the records containing a victim’s statement or address, or the statement or address of a relative of the victim. A request for records of information pursuant to this paragraph must be in writing and a statement provided demonstrating a need for the records or information.
(d) Information specified in paragraph (1)(b) to a public defender or a criminal conflict and civil regional counsel representing a defendant, except those portions of the records containing a victim’s statement or address, or the statement or address of a relative of the victim. A request for records or information pursuant to this paragraph need not be in writing.
(e) Information specified in paragraph (1)(b) to state or local governmental agencies. A request for records or information pursuant to this paragraph must be in writing and a statement provided demonstrating a need for the records or information.
(f) Information specified in paragraph (1)(b) to a person conducting legitimate research. A request for records and information pursuant to this paragraph must be in writing, the person requesting the records or information must sign a confidentiality agreement, and the department must approve the request in writing.
(g) Protected health information and records specified in paragraphs (1)(a) and (h) to the Department of Health and the county health department where an inmate plans to reside if he or she has tested positive for the presence of the antibody or antigen to human immunodeficiency virus infection or as authorized in s. 381.004.
(h) Protected health information and mental health, medical, or substance abuse records specified in paragraph (1)(a) to the Executive Office of the Governor, the Correctional Medical Authority, and the Department of Health for health care oversight activities authorized by state or federal law, including audits; civil, administrative, or criminal investigations; or inspections relating to the provision of health services, in accordance with 45 C.F.R. part 164, subpart E.
(i) Protected health information and mental health, medical, or substance abuse records specified in paragraph (1)(a) to a state attorney, a state court, or a law enforcement agency conducting an ongoing criminal investigation, if the inmate agrees to the disclosure and provides written consent or, if the inmate refuses to provide written consent, in response to an order of a court of competent jurisdiction, a subpoena, including a grand jury, investigative, or administrative subpoena, a court-ordered warrant, or a statutorily authorized investigative demand or other process as authorized by law, in accordance with 45 C.F.R. part 164, subpart E, provided that:
1. The protected health information and records sought are relevant and material to a legitimate law enforcement inquiry;
2. There is a clear connection between the investigated incident and the inmate whose protected health information and records are sought;
3. The request is specific and limited in scope to the extent reasonably practicable in light of the purpose for which the information or records are sought; and
4. Deidentified information could not reasonably be used.
(j) Protected health information and mental health, medical, or substance abuse records specified in paragraph (1)(a) of an inmate who is or is suspected of being the victim of a crime, to a state attorney or a law enforcement agency if the inmate agrees to the disclosure and provides written consent or if the inmate is unable to agree because of incapacity or other emergency circumstance, in accordance with 45 C.F.R. part 164, subpart E, provided that:
1. Such protected health information and records are needed to determine whether a violation of law by a person other than the inmate victim has occurred;
2. Such protected health information or records are not intended to be used against the inmate victim;
3. The immediate law enforcement activity that depends upon the disclosure would be materially and adversely affected by waiting until the inmate victim is able to agree to the disclosure; and
4. The disclosure is in the best interests of the inmate victim, as determined by the department.
(k) Protected health information and mental health, medical, or substance abuse records specified in paragraph (1)(a) to a state attorney or a law enforcement agency if the department believes in good faith that the information and records constitute evidence of criminal conduct that occurred in a correctional institution or facility, in accordance with 45 C.F.R. part 164, subpart E, provided that:
1. The protected health information and records disclosed are specific and limited in scope to the extent reasonably practicable in light of the purpose for which the information or records are sought;
2. There is a clear connection between the criminal conduct and the inmate whose protected health information and records are sought; and
3. Deidentified information could not reasonably be used.
(l) Protected health information and mental health, medical, or substance abuse records specified in paragraph (1)(a) to the Division of Risk Management of the Department of Financial Services, in accordance with 45 C.F.R. part 164, subpart E, upon certification by the Division of Risk Management that such information and records are necessary to investigate and provide legal representation for a claim against the Department of Corrections.
(m) Protected health information and mental health, medical, or substance abuse records specified in paragraph (1)(a) of an inmate who is bringing a legal action against the department, to the Department of Legal Affairs or to an attorney retained to represent the department in a legal proceeding, in accordance with 45 C.F.R. part 164, subpart E.
(n) Protected health information and mental health, medical, or substance abuse records of an inmate as specified in paragraph (1)(a) to another correctional institution or facility or law enforcement official having lawful custody of the inmate, in accordance with 45 C.F.R. part 164, subpart E, if the protected health information or records are necessary for:
1. The provision of health care to the inmate;
2. The health and safety of the inmate or other inmates;
3. The health and safety of the officers, employees, or others at the correctional institution or facility;
4. The health and safety of the individuals or officers responsible for transporting the inmate from one correctional institution, facility, or setting to another;
5. Law enforcement on the premises of the correctional institution or facility; or
6. The administration and maintenance of the safety, security, and good order of the correctional institution or facility.
(o) Protected health information and mental health, medical, or substance abuse records of an inmate as specified in paragraph (1)(a) to the Department of Children and Families and the Florida Commission on Offender Review, in accordance with 45 C.F.R. part 164, subpart E, if the inmate received mental health treatment while in the custody of the Department of Corrections and becomes eligible for release under supervision or upon the end of his or her sentence.
(p) Notwithstanding s. 456.057 and in accordance with 45 C.F.R. part 164, subpart E, protected health information and mental health, medical, or substance abuse records specified in paragraph (1)(a) of a deceased inmate or offender to an individual with authority to act on behalf of the deceased inmate or offender, upon the individual’s request. For purposes of this section, the following individuals have authority to act on behalf of a deceased inmate or offender only for the purpose of requesting access to such protected health information and records:
1. A person appointed by a court to act as the personal representative, executor, administrator, curator, or temporary administrator of the deceased inmate’s or offender’s estate;
2. If a court has not made a judicial appointment under subparagraph 1., a person designated by the inmate or offender to act as his or her personal representative in a last will that is self-proved under s. 732.503; or
3. If a court has not made a judicial appointment under subparagraph 1. or if the inmate or offender has not designated a person in a self-proved last will as provided in subparagraph 2., only the following individuals:
a. A surviving spouse.
b. If there is no surviving spouse, a surviving adult child of the inmate or offender.
c. If there is no surviving spouse or adult child, a parent of the inmate or offender.
(q) All requests for access to a deceased inmate’s or offender’s protected health information or mental health, medical, or substance abuse records specified in paragraph (1)(a) must be in writing and must be accompanied by the following:
1. If made by a person authorized under subparagraph (p)1., a copy of the letter of administration and a copy of the court order appointing such person as the representative of the inmate’s or offender’s estate.
2. If made by a person authorized under subparagraph (p)2., a copy of the self-proved last will designating the person as the inmate’s or offender’s representative.
3. If made by a person authorized under subparagraph (p)3., a letter from the person’s attorney verifying the person’s relationship to the inmate or offender and the absence of a court-appointed representative and self-proved last will.

Records and information released under this subsection remain confidential and exempt from the provisions of s. 119.07(1) and s. 24(a), Art. I of the State Constitution when held by the receiving person or entity.

(3) Due to substantial concerns regarding institutional security and unreasonable and excessive demands on personnel and resources if an inmate or an offender has unlimited or routine access to records of the Department of Corrections, an inmate or an offender who is under the jurisdiction of the department may not have unrestricted access to the department’s records or to information contained in the department’s records. However, except as to another inmate’s or offender’s records, the department may permit limited access to its records if an inmate or an offender makes a written request and demonstrates an exceptional need for information contained in the department’s records and the information is otherwise unavailable. Exceptional circumstances include, but are not limited to:
(a) The inmate or offender requests documentation to resolve a conflict between the inmate’s court documentation and the commitment papers or court orders received by the department regarding the inmate or offender.
(b) The inmate’s or offender’s release is forthcoming and a prospective employer requests, in writing, documentation of the inmate’s or offender’s work performance.
(c) The inmate or offender needs information concerning the amount of victim restitution paid during the inmate’s or offender’s incarceration.
(d) The requested records contain information required to process an application or claim by the inmate or offender with the Internal Revenue Service, the Social Security Administration, the Department of Commerce, or any other similar application or claim with a state agency or federal agency.
(e) The inmate or offender wishes to obtain the current address of a relative whose address is in the department’s records and the relative has not indicated a desire not to be contacted by the inmate or offender.
(f) Other similar circumstances that do not present a threat to the security, order, or rehabilitative objectives of the correctional system or to any person’s safety.
(4) The Department of Corrections shall adopt rules to prevent disclosure of confidential records or information to unauthorized persons.
(5) The Department of Corrections and the Florida Commission on Offender Review shall mutually cooperate with respect to maintaining the confidentiality of records that are exempt from s. 119.07(1) and s. 24(a), Art. I of the State Constitution.
(6) This section does not limit any right to obtain records by subpoena or other court process.
History.—s. 10, ch. 57-213; s. 18, ch. 61-530; s. 1, ch. 65-453; ss. 19, 35, ch. 69-106; s. 24, ch. 74-112; s. 255, ch. 77-104; s. 87, ch. 79-3; s. 1, ch. 88-118; s. 56, ch. 88-122; s. 1, ch. 94-83; s. 448, ch. 96-406; s. 2, ch. 98-4; s. 314, ch. 99-8; s. 1, ch. 99-263; s. 2, ch. 2000-1; s. 3, ch. 2002-292; s. 3, ch. 2003-272; s. 43, ch. 2010-117; s. 446, ch. 2011-142; s. 324, ch. 2014-19; s. 37, ch. 2014-191; s. 1, ch. 2017-114; s. 1, ch. 2022-87; s. 1, ch. 2022-115; s. 13, ch. 2022-195; s. 239, ch. 2024-6; s. 37, ch. 2024-84.
945.12 Transfers for rehabilitative treatment.—
(1) The Department of Corrections is authorized to transfer substance abuse impaired persons, as defined in chapter 397, and tuberculous or other prisoners requiring specialized services to appropriate public or private facilities or programs for the purpose of providing specialized services or treatment for as long as the services or treatment is needed, but for no longer than the remainder of the prisoner’s sentence.
(2) The Department of Corrections is authorized to enter into agreements with the controlling authorities of such state institutions which have or are provided with appropriate facilities for the secure confinement and treatment of substance abuse impaired persons, mentally ill persons, and tuberculous persons. In any such agreement, the department shall provide for custodial personnel to maintain proper security of persons transferred from the correctional system to any other state institution. Such custodial personnel shall be employed and paid by the department and subject to rules such as are agreed upon jointly by it and the controlling authority entering into such agreement.
(3) The department shall reimburse the institution furnishing treatment at a figure agreed upon by it and the controlling authority of such institution.
(4) When, in the opinion of the superintendent of an institution to which a prisoner has been transferred, such prisoner has been cured, or will no longer benefit from treatment at that institution, other than a mentally ill prisoner, the superintendent shall notify the department which shall, at the earliest practicable date thereafter, convey such prisoner to the appropriate classification center for reclassification.
(5) When the department plans to release an offender who is mentally ill or intellectually disabled, an involuntary commitment hearing shall be held as soon as possible before his or her release in accordance with chapter 393 or chapter 394.
(6) A prisoner who has been determined by the Department of Children and Families and the Department of Corrections to be amenable to rehabilitative treatment for sexual deviation, and who has voluntarily agreed to participate in such rehabilitative treatment, may be transferred to the Department of Children and Families provided appropriate bed space is available.
(7) A “mentally ill person” is one who has an impairment of the emotional processes, of the ability to exercise conscious control of one’s actions, or of the ability to perceive reality or to understand, which impairment substantially interferes with a person’s ability to meet the ordinary demands of living, regardless of etiology.
History.—s. 12, ch. 57-213; s. 18, ch. 61-530; ss. 19, 35, ch. 69-106; s. 1, ch. 74-122; s. 75, ch. 77-120; s. 7, ch. 77-312; s. 88, ch. 79-3; ss. 7, 10, ch. 79-341; s. 497, ch. 81-259; s. 11, ch. 81-293; s. 2, ch. 82-224; s. 2, ch. 83-109; s. 29, ch. 84-361; s. 7, ch. 88-33; s. 45, ch. 93-39; s. 1663, ch. 97-102; s. 315, ch. 99-8; s. 42, ch. 2013-162; s. 325, ch. 2014-19.
945.215 Inmate welfare and employee benefit trust funds.—
(1) INMATE PURCHASES; DEPARTMENT OF CORRECTIONS.—
(a) The net proceeds from operating inmate canteens, vending machines used primarily by inmates and visitors, hobby shops, and other such facilities must be deposited into the State-Operated Institutions Inmate Welfare Trust Fund or, as provided in paragraph (2)(b), into the General Revenue Fund; however, funds necessary to purchase items for resale at inmate canteens and vending machines must be deposited into local bank accounts designated by the department.
(b) All proceeds from contracted telephone commissions must be deposited into the State-Operated Institutions Inmate Welfare Trust Fund or, as provided in paragraph (2)(b), into the General Revenue Fund. The department shall develop and update, as necessary, administrative procedures to verify that:
1. Contracted telephone companies accurately record and report all telephone calls made by inmates incarcerated in correctional facilities under the department’s jurisdiction;
2. Persons who accept collect calls from inmates are charged the contracted rate; and
3. The department receives the contracted telephone commissions.
(c) Any funds that may be assigned by inmates or donated to the department by the general public or an inmate service organization must be deposited into the State-Operated Institutions Inmate Welfare Trust Fund or, as provided in paragraph (2)(b), into the General Revenue Fund; however, the department may not accept any donation from, or on behalf of, any individual inmate.
(d) All proceeds from the following sources must be deposited into the State-Operated Institutions Inmate Welfare Trust Fund or, as provided in paragraph (2)(b), into the General Revenue Fund:
1. The confiscation and liquidation of any contraband found upon, or in the possession of, any inmate;
2. Disciplinary fines imposed against inmates;
3. Forfeitures of inmate earnings;
4. Unexpended balances in individual inmate trust fund accounts of less than $1;
5. Copayments made by inmates for nonemergency visits to a health care provider pursuant to s. 945.6037;
6. Any proceeds obtained through the collection of damages pursuant to s. 960.293(2); and
7. Cost of incarceration liens pursuant to s. 960.292(2).
(e) Items for resale at inmate canteens and vending machines maintained at the correctional facilities shall be priced comparatively with like items for retail sale at fair market prices.
(f) Notwithstanding any other provision of law, inmates with sufficient balances in their individual inmate bank trust fund accounts, after all debts against the account are satisfied, shall be allowed to request a weekly draw of up to an amount set by the Secretary of Corrections to be expended for personal use on canteen and vending machine items.
(2) STATE-OPERATED INSTITUTIONS INMATE WELFARE TRUST FUND.—
(a) The State-Operated Institutions Inmate Welfare Trust Fund constitutes a trust held by the department for the benefit and welfare of inmates incarcerated in correctional facilities operated directly by the department.
(b) Deposits into the trust fund may not exceed a total of $32 million in any fiscal year. Any proceeds or funds that would cause deposits into the trust fund to exceed this limit must be deposited into the General Revenue Fund.
(c) Funds in the trust fund shall be used exclusively to provide for or operate any of the following at correctional facilities operated by the department:
1. Literacy programs, vocational training programs, and educational programs, including fixed capital outlay for educational facilities.
2. Inmate chapels, faith-based programs, visiting pavilions, visiting services and programs, family services and programs, and libraries.
3. Inmate substance abuse treatment programs and transition and life skills training programs.
4. The purchase, rental, maintenance, or repair of electronic or audiovisual equipment, media, services, and programming used by inmates.
5. The purchase, rental, maintenance, or repair of recreation and wellness equipment.
6. The purchase, rental, maintenance, or repair of bicycles used by inmates traveling to and from employment in the work-release program authorized under s. 945.091(1)(b).
7. Environmental health upgrades to facilities, including fixed capital outlay for repairs and maintenance that would improve environmental conditions of the correctional facilities.
(d) Funds in the trust fund may be expended only pursuant to legislative appropriation.
(e) The department shall annually compile a report that documents State-Operated Institutions Inmate Welfare Trust Fund receipts and expenditures. This report must be compiled at both the statewide and institutional levels. The department must submit the report for the previous fiscal year by October 1 of each year to the Executive Office of the Governor and the chairs of the appropriate substantive and fiscal committees of the Senate and the House of Representatives.
(3) CONTRACTOR-OPERATED INSTITUTIONS INMATE WELFARE TRUST FUND; CONTRACTOR-OPERATED CORRECTIONAL FACILITIES.—
(a) For purposes of this subsection, contractor-operated institutions or contractor-operated correctional facilities are those correctional facilities under contract with the department pursuant to chapter 944 or chapter 957.
(b)1. The net proceeds derived from inmate canteens, vending machines used primarily by inmates, telephone commissions, and similar sources at contractor-operated correctional facilities shall be deposited in the Contractor-Operated Institutions Inmate Welfare Trust Fund.
2. Funds in the Contractor-Operated Institutions Inmate Welfare Trust Fund shall be expended only pursuant to legislative appropriation.
(c) The department shall annually compile a report that documents Contractor-Operated Institutions Inmate Welfare Trust Fund receipts and expenditures at each contractor-operated correctional facility. This report must specifically identify receipt sources and expenditures. The department shall compile this report for the prior fiscal year and shall submit the report by September 1 of each year to the chairs of the appropriate substantive and fiscal committees of the Senate and House of Representatives and to the Executive Office of the Governor.
(4) EMPLOYEE BENEFIT TRUST FUND; DEPARTMENT OF CORRECTIONS.—
(a) The department may establish an Employee Benefit Trust Fund. Trust fund sources may be derived from any of the following:
1. Proceeds of vending machines, staff canteens, or other such services not intended for use by inmates.
2. Net proceeds of the recycling program.
3. Donations, except for donations made by, or on behalf of, an individual inmate, and except for donations made by a person who provides, or seeks to provide, goods or services to the department under a contract or an agreement, individually or through a corporation or organization.
4. Additional trust funds and grants which may become available.
(b) Funds from the Employee Benefit Trust Fund may be used for employee appreciation programs and activities and to construct, operate, and maintain training and recreation facilities at correctional facilities for the exclusive use of department employees. Such facilities are the property of the department and must provide the maximum benefit to all interested employees, regardless of gender.
(c) The Employee Benefit Trust Fund shall be established as a separate and distinct set of accounts, which shall be maintained centrally by the department, overseen by the secretary, and subject to an annual audit by the department’s inspector general.
(d) The department shall maintain sufficient data to provide an annual report, upon request, to the President of the Senate, the Speaker of the House of Representatives, and the Executive Office of the Governor on December 1 which lists the types of services provided using moneys in the trust fund and the allocations of funds spent.
(e) The department shall adopt rules under ss. 120.536(1) and 120.54 to administer this subsection.
History.—s. 1, ch. 79-78; s. 10, ch. 85-288; s. 1, ch. 87-233; s. 5, ch. 94-273; s. 14, ch. 96-312; s. 1858, ch. 97-102; s. 3, ch. 98-388; s. 14, ch. 99-271; s. 4, ch. 2000-328; s. 1, ch. 2001-379; s. 1, ch. 2002-268; s. 10, ch. 2003-179; s. 9, ch. 2004-248; s. 3, ch. 2007-210; s. 90, ch. 2016-10; s. 2, ch. 2020-98; s. 1, ch. 2023-244; s. 10, ch. 2023-268; s. 38, ch. 2024-84.
945.21501 Employee Benefit Trust Fund.—
(1) There is hereby created in the Department of Corrections the Employee Benefit Trust Fund. The purpose of the trust fund shall be to:
(a) Construct, operate, and maintain training and recreation facilities at correctional facilities for the exclusive use of department employees. Any facility constructed using funds from the Employee Benefit Trust Fund is the property of the department and must provide the maximum benefit to all interested employees, regardless of gender.
(b) Provide funding for employee appreciation programs and activities designed to enhance the morale of employees.

Moneys shall be deposited in the trust fund as provided in s. 945.215.

(2) Notwithstanding the provisions of s. 216.301 and pursuant to s. 216.351, any balance in the trust fund at the end of any fiscal year shall remain in the trust fund at the end of the year and shall be available for carrying out the purposes of the trust fund.
(3) The department shall adopt rules pursuant to ss. 120.536(1) and 120.54 to administer this section.
History.—s. 1, ch. 98-384; s. 2, ch. 2002-110; s. 4, ch. 2007-210.
945.21503 Federal Grants Trust Fund.—
(1) The Federal Grants Trust Fund is created within the Department of Corrections.
(2) The fund is established for use as a depository for funds to be used for allowable grant activities funded by restricted program revenues. Moneys to be credited to the trust fund shall consist of grants and funding from the Federal Government, interest earnings, and cash advances from other trust funds.
History.—s. 1, ch. 2006-20; s. 2, ch. 2009-29.
945.2151 Verifying social security numbers.—Prior to opening a canteen account pursuant to s. 945.215, an inmate who is eligible to receive a social security number must report his or her social security number. The department shall, in adherence with its agreement with the Social Security Administration and in a timely manner, submit sufficient and necessary information to verify that the reported inmate’s social security number is accurate and properly belongs to the inmate. If the Social Security Administration is unable to verify a reported social security number for an inmate, the department shall prohibit canteen purchases by the inmate if the department concludes that the inmate was deceptive in reporting the social security number. The prohibition against purchasing canteen items will remain in effect until a verified social security number is obtained.
History.—s. 49, ch. 96-312.
945.25 Records.—
(1) It shall be the duty of the Department of Corrections to obtain and place in its records information as complete as practicable on every person who may be sentenced to supervision or incarceration under the jurisdiction of the department. Such information shall be obtained as soon as possible after imposition of sentence and shall, in the discretion of the department, include, among other things:
(a) A copy of the indictment or information and a complete statement of the facts of the crime for which such person has been sentenced.
(b) The court in which the person was sentenced.
(c) The terms of the sentence.
(d) The name of the presiding judge, the prosecuting officers, the investigating officers, and the attorneys for the person convicted.
(e) A copy of all probation reports which may have been made.
(f) Any social, physical, mental, psychiatric, or criminal record of such person.
(2) It shall be the duty of the court and its prosecuting officials to furnish to the department upon its request such information and also to furnish such copies of such minutes and other records as may be in their possession or under their control.
(3) Following the initial hearing provided for in s. 947.172(1), the commission shall prepare and the department shall include in the official record a copy of the seriousness-of-offense and favorable-parole-outcome scores and shall include a listing of the specific factors and information used in establishing a presumptive parole release date for the inmate.
History.—s. 11, ch. 20519, 1941; ss. 19, 35, ch. 69-106; ss. 81, 87, ch. 77-120; s. 20, ch. 78-417; s. 97, ch. 79-3; s. 57, ch. 88-122; s. 5, ch. 92-310; s. 28, ch. 95-145; s. 26, ch. 2004-335.
Note.—Former s. 947.14(1), (2), (4), and (6).
945.27 Proceedings by department.—
(1) Whenever it becomes necessary to increase the number of prison beds by acquiring private property for the construction of new correctional facilities or for the expansion of existing facilities, and the property cannot be acquired by agreement satisfactory to the Department of Corrections and the parties interested in, or the owners of, the private property, the department is hereby empowered and authorized to exercise the right of eminent domain and to proceed to condemn the property in the same manner as provided by law for the condemnation of property.
(2) Any suit or action brought by the said department to condemn property as provided in this section shall be brought in the name of the Department of Corrections, and it shall be the duty of the Department of Legal Affairs to conduct the proceedings for, and to act as counsel for, the said department.
History.—s. 83, ch. 77-120; s. 99, ch. 79-3; s. 2, ch. 94-273; s. 30, ch. 95-283.
945.28 Selection of probation or parole offices by the department; public notice.—
(1) Beginning July 1, 1995, whenever the department is going to enter into a contract for the lease or purchase of a probation and parole office space to be used by the department, the department shall provide notice, by publication in the county in which the office space is to be located, in a newspaper of general circulation in said county, 30 days prior to signing any lease or purchasing any property to be used for office space, that the department intends to lease or purchase such property. The published notice shall include a telephone number whereby interested members of the public may communicate with the department with respect to any questions or input the public may have with regard to the proposed lease or purchase.
(2) When the site of the proposed probation and parole office space is to be located within one quarter mile of a school for children in grade 12 or lower, licensed day care center facility, park, playground, nursing home, convalescent center, hospital, association for disabled population, mental health center, youth center, group home for disabled population or youth, or other place where children or a population especially vulnerable to crime due to age or physical or mental disability regularly congregates, the department shall provide written notification to the county or city administrator in the county or city in which the office space is to be located simultaneously with the newspaper publication.
History.—s. 31, ch. 95-283; s. 1, ch. 97-156.
945.31 Restitution and other payments.—The department may establish bank accounts outside the State Treasury for the purpose of collecting and disbursing restitution and other court-ordered payments from persons in its custody or under its supervision, and may collect an administrative processing fee in an amount equal to 4 percent of the gross amounts of such payments. Such administrative processing fee shall be deposited in the department’s Operating Trust Fund and shall be used to offset the cost of the department’s services. The department is authorized to deposit or transfer into the General Revenue Fund:
(1) Offender overpayments that are less than $10 at the end of the offender’s supervision.
(2) Offender funds that are not claimed within 1 year after supervision is terminated.
(3) Victim restitution payments that are not claimed within 1 year after the offender’s supervision is terminated.
(4) Interest earned on balances in the COPS bank accounts.
(5) Payments that cannot be identified and are not claimed within 1 year after they are received.
History.—s. 11, ch. 89-526; s. 14, ch. 93-120; s. 32, ch. 95-283; s. 5, ch. 98-388; s. 1, ch. 2003-136.
945.35 Requirement for education on human immunodeficiency virus, acquired immune deficiency syndrome, and other communicable diseases.—
(1) The Department of Corrections, in conjunction with the Department of Health, shall establish a mandatory introductory and continuing education program on human immunodeficiency virus, acquired immune deficiency syndrome, and other communicable diseases for all inmates. Programs shall be specifically designed for inmates while incarcerated and in preparation for release into the community. Consideration shall be given to cultural and other relevant differences among inmates in the development of educational materials and shall include emphasis on behavior and attitude change. The education program shall be continuously updated to reflect the latest medical information available.
(2) The Department of Corrections, in conjunction with the Department of Health, shall establish a mandatory education program on human immunodeficiency virus, acquired immune deficiency syndrome, and other communicable diseases with an emphasis on appropriate behavior and attitude change to be offered on an annual basis to all staff in correctional facilities, including new staff.
(3) When there is evidence that an inmate, while in the custody of the department, has engaged in behavior which places the inmate at a high risk of transmitting or contracting a human immunodeficiency disorder or other communicable disease, the department may begin a testing program which is consistent with guidelines of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and recommendations of the Correctional Medical Authority. For purposes of this subsection, “high-risk behavior” includes:
(a) Sexual contact with any person.
(b) An altercation involving exposure to body fluids.
(c) The use of intravenous drugs.
(d) Tattooing.
(e) Any other activity medically known to transmit the virus.
(4) The results of such tests shall become a part of that inmate’s medical file, accessible only to persons designated by agency rule.
(5) If the department has reason to believe that an inmate may have intentionally or unintentionally transmitted a communicable disease to any correctional officer or any employee of the department, or to any person lawfully present in a correctional facility who is not incarcerated there, the department shall, upon request of the affected correctional officer, employee, or other person, cause the inmate who may have transmitted the communicable disease to be promptly tested for its presence and communicate the results as soon as practicable to the person requesting the test be performed, and to the inmate tested if the inmate so requests.
(6) If the results of the test pursuant to subsection (5) indicate the presence of a communicable disease, the department shall provide appropriate access for counseling, health care, and support services to the affected correctional officer, employee, or other person, and to the inmate tested.
(7) The results of a test under subsections (5) and (6) are inadmissible against the person tested in any federal or state civil or criminal case or proceeding.
(8) The department shall promulgate rules to implement subsections (5), (6), and (7). Such rules shall require that the results of any tests are communicated only to a person requesting the test and the inmate tested. Such rules shall also provide for procedures designed to protect the privacy of a person requesting that the test be performed and the privacy of the inmate tested.
(9) The department shall establish policies consistent with guidelines of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and recommendations of the Correctional Medical Authority on the housing, physical contact, dining, recreation, and exercise hours or locations for inmates with immunodeficiency disorders as are medically indicated and consistent with the proper operation of its facilities.
History.—s. 12, ch. 88-380; s. 20, ch. 97-93; s. 316, ch. 99-8; s. 4, ch. 2001-244; s. 164, ch. 2010-102.
945.355 HIV testing of inmates prior to release.—
(1) As used in this section, the term “HIV test” means a test ordered to determine the presence of the antibody or antigen to human immunodeficiency virus or the presence of human immunodeficiency virus infection.
(2) If an inmate’s HIV status is unknown to the department, the department shall, pursuant to s. 381.004(2), perform an HIV test on the inmate not less than 60 days prior to the inmate’s presumptive release date from prison by reason of parole, accumulation of gain-time credits, or expiration of sentence. An inmate who is known to the department to be HIV positive or who has been tested within the previous year and does not request retesting need not be tested under this section but is subject to subsections (4) and (5). However, an inmate who is released due to an emergency is exempt from the provisions of this section.
(3) The department shall record the results of the HIV test in the inmate’s medical record.
(4) Pursuant to ss. 381.004(2) and 945.10, the department shall notify the Department of Health and the county health department where the inmate plans to reside regarding an inmate who is known to be HIV positive or has received an HIV positive test result under this section prior to the release of that inmate.
(5) Prior to the release of an inmate who is known to be HIV positive or who has received a positive HIV test result under this section, the department shall provide special transitional assistance to the inmate, which must include:
(a) Education on preventing the transmission of HIV to others and on the importance of receiving followup care and treatment.
(b) A written, individualized discharge plan that includes referrals to and contacts with the county health department and local HIV primary care services in the area where the inmate plans to reside.
(c) A 30-day supply of all HIV/AIDS-related medications that the inmate is taking prior to release under the protocols of the Department of Corrections and the treatment guidelines of the United States Department of Health and Human Services.
(6) Notwithstanding any provision of the Florida Statutes providing for a waiver of sovereign immunity, neither the state, its agencies, subdivisions nor employees of the state, its agencies, or subdivisions shall be liable to any person for negligently causing death or personal injury arising out of complying with this section.
History.—ss. 1, 6, ch. 2002-292; s. 112, ch. 2003-1; s. 113, ch. 2013-15.
945.36 Law enforcement personnel authorized to conduct drug tests on inmates and releasees.—
(1) Any law enforcement officer, state or county probation officer, employee of the Department of Corrections, or employee of a contracted community correctional center who is certified by the Department of Corrections pursuant to subsection (2) may administer a urine screen drug test to:
(a) Persons during incarceration;
(b) Persons released as a condition of probation for either a felony or misdemeanor;
(c) Persons released as a condition of community control;
(d) Persons released as a condition of conditional release;
(e) Persons released as a condition of parole;
(f) Persons released as a condition of provisional release;
(g) Persons released as a condition of pretrial release; or
(h) Persons released as a condition of control release.
(2) The Department of Corrections shall develop a procedure for certification of any law enforcement officer, state or county probation officer, employee of the Department of Corrections, or employee of a contracted community correctional center to perform a urine screen drug test on the persons specified in subsection (1).
History.—s. 1, ch. 90-205; s. 79, ch. 95-211; s. 6, ch. 2017-31; s. 126, ch. 2018-24.
945.40 Corrections Mental Health Act; short title for ss. 945.40-945.49.—Sections 945.40-945.49 shall be known and may be cited as the “Corrections Mental Health Act.”
History.—s. 1, ch. 82-224; s. 29, ch. 84-361.
945.41 Mental health treatment for inmates; legislative intent of ss. 945.40-945.49.—
(1) INTENT.—It is the intent of the Legislature that:
(a) Inmates in the custody of the department who have a mental illness receive an evaluation and appropriate treatment for their mental illness through a continuum of outpatient and inpatient mental health treatment and services.
(b) The department is authorized to purchase treatment materials and equipment to support inmate rehabilitation; to ameliorate disabling mental symptoms associated with impairment in behavioral functioning, sensory and motor skills, and impulse control; and to improve adaptive coping skills consistent with the department’s jurisdiction as described in s. 945.025.
(c) Sections 945.40-945.49 do not supplement, amend, or change the responsibilities of the Department of Children and Families pursuant to chapter 916, the Forensic Client Services Act, which governs forensic services for persons who are incompetent to proceed as defined in s. 916.106.
(2) INDIVIDUAL DIGNITY AND TREATMENT.—
(a) An inmate in the custody of the department shall be offered treatment that is suited to his or her needs as determined by health care staff and that is provided in a humane psychological environment. Such treatment shall be administered skillfully, safely, and humanely with respect for the inmate’s dignity and personal integrity.
(b) The department shall provide mental health treatment and services to inmates and may contract with any entities, persons, or agencies qualified to provide such treatment and services.
(c) Inmates receiving mental health treatment and services shall be offered the opportunity to participate in the development of a written individualized treatment plan and provided a copy of such plan before its implementation.
(d) Inmates who have mental illnesses that require intensive mental health inpatient treatment and services or care shall be offered appropriate treatment or care in an inpatient setting designated for that purpose. Inmates who have mental illnesses that require intensive hospitalization-level mental health inpatient treatment and services shall be transferred to a department mental health treatment facility designated for that purpose.
(e) Mental health treatment facilities shall be secure and adequately equipped and staffed for the provision of mental health treatment and services. Inmates shall be offered the least restrictive appropriate available treatment and services based on their assessed needs and best interests and consistent with improvement of their condition for facilitation of appropriate adjustment within the correctional environment.
(3) EXPRESS AND INFORMED CONSENT.—
(a) A mentally competent inmate offered mental health treatment within the department shall give his or her express and informed consent for such treatment. Before giving such consent, the following information shall be provided and explained in plain language to the inmate:
1. The proposed treatment.
2. The purpose of the treatment.
3. The common risks, benefits, and side effects of the treatment and the specific dosage range for a medication, if applicable.
4. Alternative treatment modalities.
5. The approximate length of treatment.
6. The potential effects of stopping treatment.
7. How treatment will be monitored.
8. That any consent given for treatment may be revoked orally or in writing before or during the treatment period by the inmate or by a person legally authorized to make health care decisions on behalf of the inmate.
(b) Inmates who are determined to be incompetent to consent to treatment shall receive treatment deemed to be necessary for their appropriate care and for the safety of the inmate or others in accordance with the procedures established in ss. 945.40-945.49.
(4) PAROLE.—Inmates who are transferred to any facility for the purpose of mental health treatment and services shall be given consideration for parole and be eligible for release by reason of gain-time allowances as provided in s. 944.291 and release by expiration of sentence, consistent with guidelines established for that purpose by the department.
(5) YOUTHFUL OFFENDERS.—Any inmate sentenced as a youthful offender, or designated as a youthful offender by the department under chapter 958, who is transferred pursuant to this act to a mental health treatment facility shall be separated from other inmates, if necessary, as determined by the warden of the mental health treatment facility.
(6) TREATMENT FACILITIES.—The department may designate mental health treatment facilities for adult, youthful, and female offenders or may contract with other appropriate entities, persons, or agencies for such services.
(7) EMERGENCY MEDICAL TREATMENT.—Notwithstanding any other provision of this section, when the express and informed consent of an inmate placed in a mental health treatment facility in accordance with s. 945.44 cannot be obtained or the inmate is incompetent to consent to treatment, the warden of a mental health treatment facility, or his or her designated representative, under the direction of the inmate’s attending physician, may authorize nonpsychiatric, emergency surgical treatment or other routine medical treatment if such treatment is deemed lifesaving or there is a situation threatening serious bodily harm to the inmate.
History.—s. 1, ch. 82-224; s. 29, ch. 84-361; s. 2, ch. 96-422; s. 317, ch. 99-8; s. 18, ch. 2000-161; s. 10, ch. 2008-250; s. 12, ch. 2010-64; s. 8, ch. 2025-81.
945.42 Definitions; ss. 945.40-945.49.—As used in ss. 945.40-945.49, the following terms shall have the meanings ascribed to them, unless the context shall clearly indicate otherwise:
(1) “Court” means the circuit court.
(2) “Crisis stabilization care” means an inpatient level of care that is less restrictive and intensive than care provided in a mental health treatment facility, that includes a broad range of evaluation and treatment and services provided within a secure and highly structured residential setting, and that is intended for inmates who are experiencing acute psychological distress and who cannot be adequately evaluated and treated in a transitional care unit or infirmary isolation management room. Such treatment and services are more intense than treatment and services provided in a transitional care unit and are devoted principally toward rapid stabilization of acute symptoms and conditions.
(3) “Department” means the Department of Corrections.
(4) “Express and informed consent” means consent voluntarily given in writing, by a competent inmate, after sufficient explanation and disclosure of the subject matter involved, to enable the inmate to make a knowing and willful decision without any element of force, fraud, deceit, duress, or other form of constraint or coercion.
(5) “Gravely disabled” means a condition in which an inmate, as a result of a diagnosed mental illness, is:
(a) In danger of serious physical harm resulting from the inmate’s failure to provide for his or her essential physical needs of food, clothing, hygiene, health, or safety without the assistance of others; or
(b) Experiencing a substantial deterioration in behavioral functioning evidenced by the inmate’s unremitting decline in volitional control over his or her actions.
(6) “Incompetent to consent to treatment” means a state in which an inmate’s judgment is so affected by mental illness that he or she lacks the capacity to make a well-reasoned, willful, and knowing decision concerning his or her medical or mental health treatment and services. The term is distinguished from the term “incompetent to proceed,” as defined in s. 916.106, and only refers to an inmate’s inability to provide express and informed consent for medical or mental health treatment and services.
(7) “In need of care and treatment” means that an inmate has a mental illness for which inpatient services in a mental health treatment facility are necessary and because of the mental illness:
(a) But for being isolated in a more restrictive and secure housing environment:
1. The inmate is demonstrating a refusal to care for himself or herself and without treatment is likely to continue to refuse to care for himself or herself, and such refusal poses a real and present threat of substantial harm to his or her well-being; or
2. There is a substantial likelihood that in the near future the inmate will inflict serious bodily harm on himself or herself or another person, as evidenced by recent behavior causing, attempting, or threatening such harm.
(b) The inmate is incompetent to consent to treatment and is unable or is refusing to provide express and informed consent to treatment.
(c) The inmate is unable to determine for himself or herself whether placement is necessary; and
(d) All available less restrictive treatment alternatives that would offer an opportunity for improvement of the inmate’s condition have been clinically determined to be inappropriate.
(8) “Inmate” means any person committed to the custody of the Department of Corrections.
(9) “Involuntary examination” means a psychiatric examination performed at a mental health treatment facility to determine whether an inmate should be placed in the mental health treatment facility for inpatient mental health treatment and services.
(10) “Likelihood of serious harm” means:
(a) A substantial risk that the inmate will inflict serious physical harm upon his or her own person, as evidenced by threats or attempts to commit suicide or the actual infliction of serious physical harm on self;
(b) A substantial risk that the inmate will inflict physical harm upon another person, as evidenced by behavior which has caused such harm or which places any person in reasonable fear of sustaining such harm; or
(c) A reasonable degree of medical certainty that the inmate will suffer serious physical or mental harm, as evidenced by the inmate’s recent behavior demonstrating an inability to refrain from engaging in self-harm behavior.
(11) “Mental health treatment facility” means any extended treatment or hospitalization-level unit within the corrections system which the Assistant Secretary for Health Services of the department specifically designates by rule to provide acute mental health care and which may include involuntary treatment and therapeutic intervention in contrast to less intensive levels of care such as outpatient mental health care, transitional mental health care, or crisis stabilization care. The term does not include a forensic facility as defined in s. 916.106.
(12) “Mental illness” or “mentally ill” means an impairment of the mental or emotional processes that exercise conscious control of one’s actions or of the ability to perceive or understand reality, which impairment substantially interferes with the person’s ability to meet the ordinary demands of living. However, for the purposes of transferring an inmate to a mental health treatment facility, the term does not include a developmental disability as defined in s. 393.063, simple intoxication, or conditions manifested only by antisocial behavior or substance abuse addiction. However, an individual who is developmentally disabled may also have a mental illness.
(13) “Psychiatrist” means a medical practitioner licensed pursuant to chapter 458 or chapter 459 who has primarily diagnosed and treated nervous and mental disorders for a period of not less than 3 years inclusive of psychiatric residency.
(14) “Psychological professional” means a behavioral practitioner who has an approved doctoral degree in psychology as defined in s. 490.003(3)(b) and is employed by the department or who is licensed as a psychologist pursuant to chapter 490.
(15) “Secretary” means the Secretary of Corrections.
(16) “Transitional mental health care” means a level of care that is more intensive than outpatient care, but less intensive than crisis stabilization care, and is characterized by the provision of traditional mental health treatment and services such as group and individual therapy, activity therapy, recreational therapy, and psychotropic medications in the context of a secure, structured residential setting. Transitional mental health care is indicated for an inmate with chronic or residual symptomatology who does not require crisis stabilization care or acute mental health care, but whose impairment in functioning nevertheless renders him or her incapable of adjusting satisfactorily within the general inmate population.
(17) “Treatment” means psychotropic medications prescribed by a medical practitioner licensed pursuant to chapter 458 or chapter 459, including those laboratory tests and related medical procedures that are essential for the safe and effective administration of a psychotropic medication and psychological interventions and services such as group and individual psychotherapy, activity therapy, recreational therapy, and music therapy. The term does not include forensic services for inmate defendants who are incompetent to proceed as defined in s. 916.106.
(18) “Warden” means the warden of a state corrections facility or his or her designee.
History.—s. 1, ch. 82-224; s. 29, ch. 84-361; s. 26, ch. 91-225; s. 3, ch. 96-422; s. 1859, ch. 97-102; s. 19, ch. 2000-161; s. 11, ch. 2008-250; s. 13, ch. 2010-64; s. 43, ch. 2013-162; s. 49, ch. 2020-133; s. 9, ch. 2025-81.
945.43 Involuntary examination.—
(1) If there is reason to believe that an inmate has a mental illness and the inmate is in need of care and treatment, the inmate’s treating clinician may refer the inmate to a mental health treatment facility for an involuntary examination. Upon referral, the warden of the facility where the inmate is housed shall transfer the inmate to a mental health treatment facility.
(2) Upon arrival to the mental health treatment facility, the inmate shall be examined by a psychiatrist and a second psychiatrist or psychological professional to determine whether the inmate is in need of care and treatment.
(3) If, after the examination, the inmate is determined to be in need of care and treatment, the psychiatrist shall propose a recommended course of treatment that is essential to the care of the inmate and the warden shall initiate proceedings for placement of the inmate in the mental health treatment facility and for involuntary treatment of the inmate as specified in s. 945.44. If the inmate is not in need of care and treatment, he or she shall be transferred out of the mental health treatment facility and provided with appropriate mental health services.
(4) The involuntary examination and initiation of court proceedings for the placement and applicable involuntary treatment of the inmate in the mental health treatment facility shall be completed within 10 calendar days after arrival.
(5) The inmate may remain in the mental health treatment facility pending a hearing after the timely filing of a petition as described in s. 945.44. Pending a hearing, necessary emergency treatment may be provided in the mental health treatment facility upon the written order of a physician as provided in s. 945.48.
History.—s. 1, ch. 82-224; s. 29, ch. 84-361; s. 75, ch. 85-62; s. 4, ch. 96-422; s. 1860, ch. 97-102; s. 20, ch. 2000-161; s. 103, ch. 2004-11; s. 12, ch. 2008-250; s. 14, ch. 2010-64; s. 10, ch. 2025-81.
945.44 Placement and treatment of an inmate in a mental health treatment facility.—
(1) CRITERIA FOR INVOLUNTARY PLACEMENT OR TREATMENT.—
(a) An inmate may be placed in a mental health treatment facility if he or she is mentally ill and is in need of care and treatment.
(b) An inmate may receive involuntary treatment for which the inmate is unable or has refused to provide express and informed consent, if all of the following apply:
1. The inmate is mentally ill.
2. The treatment is essential to the care of the inmate.
3. The treatment is not experimental and does not present an unreasonable risk of serious, hazardous, or irreversible side effects.
4. The inmate is gravely disabled or poses a likelihood of serious harm.
5. The inmate is incompetent to consent to treatment.
(2) HEARING PROCEDURES FOR PETITIONS FOR PLACEMENT AND TREATMENT.—
(a) An inmate may be placed and involuntarily treated in a mental health treatment facility after notice and hearing upon the recommendation of the warden of the facility where the inmate is confined. The warden of the institution where the mental health treatment facility is located shall petition the circuit court serving the county for an order authorizing the placement and treatment of the inmate. The petition must be supported by the expert opinion of at least one of the inmate’s treating psychiatrists.
(b) The inmate shall be provided with a copy of the petition along with the proposed treatment; the basis for the proposed treatment; the names of the examining experts; and the date, time, and location of the hearing. After considering the public safety and security concerns presented by transporting the inmate or in conducting onsite hearings, the court may order that the hearing be conducted by electronic means or in person at the facility or at another location designated by the court. If the hearing is ordered by the court to be conducted at a location other than the facility, the department is authorized to transport the inmate to the location of the hearing.
(c) The inmate may have an attorney represent him or her at the hearing, and, if the inmate is indigent, the court shall appoint the office of the public defender or private counsel pursuant to s. 27.40(1) to represent the inmate at the hearing. An attorney representing the inmate shall have access to the inmate and any records, including medical or mental health records, which are relevant to the representation of the inmate.
(d) The hearing on the petition for involuntary placement and treatment shall be held as expeditiously as possible after the petition is filed, but no later than 14 calendar days after filing. The court may appoint a general or special magistrate to preside. The inmate may testify or not, as he or she chooses; may cross-examine witnesses testifying on behalf of the facility; and may present his or her own witnesses.
(e) The court may waive the presence of the inmate at the hearing if the waiver is consistent with the best interests of the inmate and the inmate’s counsel does not object. One of the inmate’s physicians whose opinion supported the petition shall appear as a witness at the hearing.
(3) ORDERS FOR INVOLUNTARY PLACEMENT AND TREATMENT.—
(a) If the court finds by clear and convincing evidence that the inmate meets the criteria in paragraph (1)(a), the court must order that the inmate be involuntarily placed in the mental health treatment facility for a period not to exceed 6 months.
(b) If the court finds by clear and convincing evidence that the inmate meets the criteria in paragraph (1)(b), the court may order that the inmate be involuntarily treated for a period not to exceed 6 months, concurrent with an order for placement in the mental health treatment facility. In determining whether to order involuntary treatment under this section, the court must consider the inmate’s expressed preference regarding treatment; whether the inmate is able to express a preference; the probability of adverse side effects; the prognosis for the inmate without treatment; the prognosis for the inmate with treatment; and any other factors the court deems relevant.
(4) STATUS HEARINGS AND CONTINUING JURISDICTION.—An order authorizing involuntary placement and treatment shall allow such placement and treatment for a period not to exceed 6 months following the date of the order. Unless the court is notified in writing that the inmate has been discharged from the mental health treatment facility because he or she is no longer in need of care and treatment, has been transferred to another institution of the department, or has been released from the department’s custody, the warden shall, before the expiration of the initial order, file a notice with the court to set a status hearing for an order authorizing the continuation of placement and treatment for another period not to exceed 6 months. This procedure shall be repeated until the inmate is no longer in need of care and treatment. Placement and treatment may be continued pending a hearing after the timely filing of any petition.
(5) COPIES OF ORDERS.—The court shall provide a copy of its order authorizing placement and treatment along with all supporting documentation relating to the inmate’s condition to the warden of the mental health treatment facility.
(6) DISMISSAL OF PETITIONS.—If the court finds that criteria for placement and treatment are not satisfied, it shall dismiss the petition and the inmate shall be transferred out of the mental health treatment facility and provided with appropriate mental health services.
History.—s. 1, ch. 82-224; s. 29, ch. 84-361; s. 5, ch. 96-422; s. 1861, ch. 97-102; s. 21, ch. 2000-161; s. 13, ch. 2008-250; s. 11, ch. 2025-81.
945.46 Initiation of involuntary placement proceedings with respect to a mentally ill inmate scheduled for release.—
(1) If an inmate who is receiving mental health treatment in the department is scheduled for release through expiration of sentence or any other means, but continues to be mentally ill and in need of care and treatment, as defined in s. 945.42, the warden is authorized to initiate procedures for involuntary placement pursuant to s. 394.467, 60 days prior to such release.
(2) In addition, the warden may initiate procedures for involuntary examination pursuant to s. 394.463 for any inmate who has a mental illness and meets the criteria of s. 394.463(1).
(3) The warden shall file petitions for involuntary inpatient placement for inmates scheduled to be released in the court in the county where the inmate is located. Upon filing, the clerk of the court shall provide copies to the Department of Children and Families, the inmate, and the state attorney and public defender of the judicial circuit in which the inmate is located. A fee may not be charged for the filing of a petition under chapter 394. Within 1 court working day after the filing of a petition for involuntary inpatient placement, the court shall appoint the public defender to represent the inmate who is the subject of the petition, unless the inmate is otherwise represented by counsel. The clerk of the court shall immediately notify the public defender of such appointment. Any attorney representing the inmate shall have access to the inmate, witnesses, and records relevant to the presentation of the patient’s case and shall represent the interests of the inmate, regardless of the source of payment to the attorney. The state attorney for the circuit in which the inmate is located shall represent the state, rather than the petitioning warden, as the real party in interest in the proceeding. The remainder of the proceedings shall be governed by chapter 394.
(4) After considering the public safety and security concerns presented by transporting the inmate or in conducting onsite hearings, the court may order that the hearing be conducted by electronic means or in person at the facility or at another location designated by the court. If the hearing is ordered by the court to be conducted at a location other than the facility, the department is authorized to transport the inmate to the location of the hearing.
(5) The department may transport an individual who is being released from its custody to a receiving or mental health treatment facility for involuntary examination or placement. Such transport shall be made to a facility that is specified by the Department of Children and Families as able to meet the specific needs of the individual. If the Department of Children and Families does not specify a facility, transport shall be made to the nearest receiving facility.
History.—s. 1, ch. 82-224; s. 29, ch. 84-361; s. 7, ch. 96-422; s. 23, ch. 2000-161; s. 15, ch. 2008-250; s. 15, ch. 2010-64; s. 326, ch. 2014-19; s. 13, ch. 2025-81.
945.47 Discharge of inmate from mental health treatment.—
(1) An inmate who has been placed in a mental health treatment facility for the purpose of mental health treatment shall be discharged from treatment by the warden under the following conditions:
(a) If the inmate is no longer in need of care and treatment, as defined in s. 945.42, he or she may be transferred out of the mental health treatment facility and provided with appropriate mental health services; or
(b) If the inmate’s sentence expires during his or her treatment, but he or she is no longer in need of care and treatment as an inpatient, the inmate may be released with a recommendation for outpatient treatment, pursuant to ss. 945.40-945.49.
(2) At any time that an inmate who has received mental health treatment while in the custody of the department becomes eligible for release under supervision or upon end of sentence, a record of the inmate’s mental health treatment may be provided to the Florida Commission on Offender Review and to the Department of Children and Families to arrange postrelease aftercare placement and to prospective recipient inpatient health care or residential facilities upon request. The record shall include, at a minimum, a summary of the inmate’s diagnosis, length of stay in treatment, clinical history, prognosis, prescribed medication, treatment plan, and recommendations for aftercare services.
History.—s. 1, ch. 82-224; s. 29, ch. 84-361; s. 59, ch. 88-122; s. 8, ch. 96-422; s. 1863, ch. 97-102; s. 318, ch. 99-8; s. 24, ch. 2000-161; s. 16, ch. 2008-250; s. 327, ch. 2014-19; s. 38, ch. 2014-191; s. 14, ch. 2025-81.
945.48 Emergency treatment orders and use of force.—
(1) EMERGENCY MEDICATION.—The department is authorized to involuntarily administer psychotropic medication to an inmate on an emergency basis without following the procedure outlined in s. 945.43 only as specified in this section. An emergency treatment order for psychotropic medication may be provided to the inmate upon the written order of a physician licensed pursuant to chapter 458 or chapter 459 in an emergency not exceeding 72 hours, excluding weekends and legal holidays. An emergency exists when an inmate with a mental illness presents an immediate threat of:
(a) Bodily harm to self or others; or
(b) Extreme deterioration in behavioral functioning secondary to the mental illness.
(2) PSYCHOTROPIC MEDICATION.—Psychotropic medication may be administered only when the medication constitutes an appropriate treatment for a mental illness and its symptoms and alternative treatments are not available or indicated, or would not be effective. If after the 72-hour period the inmate has not given express and informed consent to the medication initially refused, the inmate’s treating physician shall refer the inmate to a mental health treatment facility for an involuntary examination in accordance with the procedures described in s. 945.43. Upon such referral, the warden shall, within 48 hours, excluding weekends and legal holidays, transfer the inmate to a mental health treatment facility. Upon transfer of the inmate for an involuntary examination, the emergency treatment order may be continued upon the written order of a physician as long as the physician has determined that the emergency continues to present a danger to the safety of the inmate or others and the criteria described in this subsection are satisfied. If psychotropic medication is still recommended after the emergency, it may only be administered after following the procedures outlined in s. 945.44.
(3) USE OF FORCE.—An employee or agent of the department is authorized to apply physical force upon an inmate when and to the extent that it reasonably appears necessary to effectuate the treatment of an inmate as described in this section, for the application of psychiatric restraint, to effectuate clinically necessary hygiene, or pursuant to a valid court order issued under s. 945.44 or s. 945.485. The requirements of s. 944.35 shall be followed when using force to effectuate such treatment, apply such restraint, or effectuate such hygiene.
History.—s. 1, ch. 82-224; s. 29, ch. 84-361; s. 1, ch. 86-241; s. 1, ch. 88-117; s. 27, ch. 91-225; s. 9, ch. 96-422; s. 1864, ch. 97-102; s. 25, ch. 2000-161; s. 17, ch. 2008-250; s. 14, ch. 2022-195; s. 15, ch. 2025-81.
945.485 Management and treatment for self-injurious behaviors.—
(1) The Legislature finds that nonsuicidal self-injurious behaviors in correctional institutions, or acts intended to cause bodily harm but not death, have increased in the correctional environment. Self-injurious behavior may include nonsuicidal self-injury or self-mutilation, such as cutting, reopening wounds, and ingesting or inserting foreign objects or dangerous instruments into the body. These behaviors pose a significant threat to inmates, staff, and, in many cases, the safe and secure operation of the correctional institution. In addition, self-injurious behaviors, coupled with repeated refusals to provide express and informed consent for medical treatment and care, are a significant challenge for correctional medical and mental health professionals, resulting in higher costs for medical services, and may result in inadvertent mortality in the incarcerated population.
(2) In accordance with s. 945.6042, the Legislature finds that an inmate retains the fundamental right of self-determination regarding decisions pertaining to his or her own health, including the right to choose or refuse medical treatment or life-saving medical procedures. However, the inmate’s right to privacy and decisionmaking regarding medical treatment may be outweighed by compelling state interests.
(3) When an inmate is engaging in active or ongoing self-injurious behavior and has refused to provide express and informed consent for treatment related to the self-injurious behavior, the warden of the facility where the inmate is housed shall consult with the inmate’s treating physician regarding the inmate’s medical and mental health status, current medical and mental health treatment needs, and competency to provide express and informed consent for treatment. The warden shall also determine whether the inmate’s self-injurious behavior presents a danger to the safety of department staff or other inmates or the security, internal order, or discipline of the institution.
(a) If the inmate’s treating physician determines that the inmate has a mental illness and is incompetent to consent to treatment, the physician shall proceed in accordance with s. 945.6042 for any necessary surgical or medical services. If the inmate is in need of care and treatment as defined in s. 945.42, the inmate shall be referred to a mental health treatment facility for an involuntary examination in accordance with s. 945.44.
(b) If the inmate is competent, refusing necessary surgical or medical treatment, and engaging in active or ongoing self-injurious behavior that presents a threat to the safety of department staff or other inmates or the security, internal order, or discipline of the institution, the warden shall follow the procedure set forth in subsection (4).
(4)(a) The warden, or his or her designated representative, shall, on behalf of the state, petition the circuit court of the county in which the inmate is residing or the county in which the inmate is hospitalized for an order compelling the inmate to submit to emergency surgical intervention or other medical services to the extent necessary to remedy the threat to the safety of staff or other inmates or the security, internal order, or discipline of the institution. The petition must be supported by the expert opinion of at least one of the inmate’s treating physicians and may be supported by other staff as necessary.
(b) The inmate shall be provided with a copy of the petition along with the proposed intervention; the basis for the proposed intervention; the names of the testifying experts and witnesses; and the date, time, and location of the hearing. After considering the medical status of the inmate, public safety, and security concerns presented by transporting the inmate, the court may order that the hearing be conducted by electronic means or in person at the institution or at another location designated by the court. If the hearing is ordered by the court to be conducted at a location other than the institution, the department is authorized to transport the inmate to the location of the hearing.
(c) The inmate may have an attorney represent him or her at the hearing, and, if the inmate is indigent, the court shall appoint the office of the public defender or private counsel pursuant to s. 27.40(1) to represent the inmate at the hearing. An attorney representing the inmate shall have access to the inmate and any records, including medical or mental health records, which are relevant to the representation of the inmate.
(d) The hearing on the petition shall be held as expeditiously as possible after the petition is filed, but no later than 5 calendar days after filing. The court may appoint a general or special magistrate to preside. The inmate may testify or not, as he or she chooses; may cross-examine witnesses testifying on behalf of the institution; and may present his or her own witnesses.
(e) The court may waive the presence of the inmate at the hearing if the waiver is consistent with the best interests of the inmate and the inmate’s counsel does not object.
(f) The court shall determine whether the warden has established, by clear and convincing evidence, a compelling state interest sufficient to outweigh the inmate’s right to refuse treatment. The court shall consider all of the following:
1. Preservation of the life of the inmate.
2. Prevention of suicide.
3. Protection of innocent third parties.
4. Maintenance of the ethical integrity of the medical profession.
5. Preservation of the security, internal order, or discipline of the institution.
6. Rehabilitation of the inmate.
7. Any other compelling state interest.
(g) If the court determines that there are compelling state interests sufficient to override the inmate’s right to refuse treatment, the court shall enter an order authorizing emergency surgical intervention or other medical services, narrowly tailored and in the least intrusive manner possible, only as necessary to remedy the threat to the safety of third parties or the security, internal order, or discipline of the institution. Emergency surgical intervention or other medical services authorized by the court may be carried out at the institution or at a licensed hospital, as applicable.
(5) This section does not repeal by implication any provision of s. 766.103, the Florida Medical Consent Law, or s. 768.13, the Good Samaritan Act. For all purposes, the Florida Medical Consent Law and the Good Samaritan Act shall be considered alternatives to this section.
History.—s. 16, ch. 2025-81.
945.49 Operation and administration.—
(1) ADMINISTRATION.—The department is authorized to contract with the appropriate entities, agencies, persons, and local governing bodies to provide mental health services pursuant to ss. 945.40-945.49.
(2) RULES.—The department shall adopt rules necessary for administration of ss. 945.40-945.49 in accordance with chapter 120.
(3) ORIENTATION AND TRAINING.—Correctional officers employed by a mental health treatment facility shall receive specialized training above and beyond that required for basic certification pursuant to chapter 943.
(4) STATUS OF INMATE.—An inmate receiving mental health treatment shall be subject to the same standards applied to other inmates in the department, including, but not limited to, consideration for parole, release by reason of gain-time allowances as provided for in s. 944.291, and release by expiration of sentence.
History.—s. 1, ch. 82-224; s. 29, ch. 84-361; s. 322, ch. 96-410; s. 10, ch. 96-422; s. 319, ch. 99-8; s. 18, ch. 2008-250; s. 328, ch. 2014-19; s. 17, ch. 2025-81.
945.601 Correctional Medical Authority; ss. 945.601-945.6035, definitions.—As used in this act:
(1) “Authority” means the State of Florida Correctional Medical Authority created in this act.
(2) “Health care provider” means:
(a) A regional research hospital or research center which is authorized by law to provide hospital services in accordance with chapter 395, which has a contractual or operating arrangement with a regional school of medicine, and which is located at that regional school of medicine;
(b) Any entity which has agreed to provide hospital services to inmates in the Department of Corrections; or
(c) Any entity licensed to provide hospital services in accordance with chapter 395.
(3) “Project” means any structure, facility, machinery, equipment, or other property suitable for use by a health facility in connection with its operations or proposed operations, including, without limitation, real property therefor; a clinic, computer facility, dining hall, firefighting facility, fire prevention facility, long-term care facility, hospital, interns’ residence, laboratory, laundry, maintenance facility, nurses’ residence, office, parking area, pharmacy, recreational facility, research facility, storage facility, utility, or X-ray facility, or any combination of the foregoing; and other structure or facility related thereto or required or useful for health care purposes, the conducting of research, or the operation of a health facility, including a facility or structure essential or convenient for the orderly conduct of the health facility and other similar items necessary or convenient for the operation of a particular facility or structure in the manner for which its use is intended. “Project” does not include such items as fuel, supplies, or other items which are customarily deemed to result in a current operating charge.
(4) “Quality management program” means to monitor and evaluate inmate health care and includes the following objectives:
(a) Assuring that all inmates receive appropriate and timely services in a safe environment.
(b) Assuring systematic monitoring of the treatment environment.
(c) Assisting in the reduction of professional and general liability risks.
(d) Enhancing efficient utilization of resources.
(e) Assisting in credential review and privilege delineation.
(f) Enhancing the identification of continuing educational needs.
(g) Facilitating the identification of strengths, weaknesses, and opportunities for improvement.
(h) Facilitating the coordination and integration of information systems.
(i) Assuring the resolution of identified problems.
(5) “Real property” includes all lands, including buildings, structures, improvements, and fixtures thereon; any property of any nature appurtenant thereto or used in connection therewith; and every estate, interest, and right, legal or equitable, therein, including any such interest for a term of years.
History.—s. 17, ch. 86-183; s. 1, ch. 87-50; s. 5, ch. 91-429; s. 15, ch. 96-312.
945.602 State of Florida Correctional Medical Authority; creation; members.—
(1) The State of Florida Correctional Medical Authority is created. For administrative purposes, the authority is assigned to the Department of Health. The governing board of the authority shall be composed of seven persons appointed by the Governor, subject to confirmation by the Senate. One member must be a member of the Florida Hospital Association, and one member must be a member of the Florida Medical Association. The authority shall contract with the Department of Health for the provision of administrative support services, including purchasing, personnel, general services, and budgetary matters. The authority is not subject to control, supervision, or direction by the Department of Health or the Department of Corrections. The authority shall annually elect one member to serve as chair. Members shall be appointed for terms of 4 years each. Each member may continue to serve upon the expiration of his or her term until a successor is duly appointed as provided in this section. Before entering upon his or her duties, each member of the authority shall take and subscribe to the oath or affirmation required by the State Constitution.
(2) A member of the authority may not be a current employee of the Department of Corrections. Not more than one member of the authority may be a former employee of the Department of Corrections, and such member, if appointed, may not be appointed to a term of office which begins within 5 years after the date of his or her last employment with the Department of Corrections.
(3) At least one member of the authority must be a physician licensed under chapter 458, and one member of the authority may be a physician licensed under chapter 458 or chapter 459. At least two other members of the authority must have had at least 5 years’ experience in health care administration.
(4) At least one member of the authority must have at least 5 years’ experience in the identification and treatment of mental disorders.
(5) At least one member of the authority must be a dentist licensed under chapter 466 and have at least 5 years’ experience in the practice of dentistry.
(6) At least one member of the authority must be a nurse licensed under part I of chapter 464 and have at least 5 years’ experience in the practice of nursing.
(7)(a) Five members of the authority shall constitute a quorum, and the affirmative vote of a majority of the members present at a meeting of the authority shall be necessary for any action taken by the authority. No vacancy in the membership of the authority shall impair the right of a quorum to exercise all the rights and perform all the duties of the authority. Any action taken by the authority under this act may be authorized by resolution at any regular or special meeting, and each such resolution shall take effect immediately and need not be published or posted. All meetings of the authority shall be open to the public in accordance with s. 286.011.
(b) Neither the provisions of this section nor those of chapter 119, or of s. 154.207(7), shall apply to any health care provider under contract with the Department of Corrections except to the extent such provisions would apply to any similar provider not under contract with the Department of Corrections.
(c) Notwithstanding any general or special law, rule, regulation, or ordinance of any local agency to the contrary, service as a member of an authority by a trustee, director, officer, or employee of a health facility shall not in and of itself constitute a conflict of interest. However, any member of the authority who is employed by, or has received income from, a health facility under consideration by the authority or the Department of Corrections shall not vote on any matter related to such facility.
(8) Members of the authority shall receive no compensation for the performance of their duties under this act, but each member shall be paid expenses incurred while engaged in the performance of such duties pursuant to s. 112.061.
History.—s. 18, ch. 86-183; s. 1, ch. 87-50; s. 8, ch. 89-531; s. 1, ch. 90-83; s. 5, ch. 91-429; s. 1, ch. 92-47; s. 16, ch. 96-312; s. 1865, ch. 97-102; s. 116, ch. 97-237; s. 1, ch. 97-260; s. 147, ch. 2000-318; s. 1, ch. 2012-122; s. 2, ch. 2020-113.
945.603 Powers and duties of authority.—The purpose of the authority is to assist in the delivery of health care services for inmates in the Department of Corrections by advising the Secretary of Corrections on the professional conduct of primary, convalescent, dental, and mental health care and the management of costs consistent with quality care, by advising the Governor and the Legislature on the status of the Department of Corrections’ health care delivery system, and by assuring that adequate standards of physical and mental health care for inmates are maintained at all Department of Corrections institutions. For this purpose, the authority has the authority to:
(1) Review and advise the Secretary of Corrections on cost containment measures the Department of Corrections could implement.
(2) Review and make recommendations regarding health care for the delivery of health care services including, but not limited to, acute hospital-based services and facilities, primary and tertiary care services, ancillary and clinical services, dental services, mental health services, intake and screening services, medical transportation services, and the use of nurse practitioner and physician assistant personnel to act as physician extenders as these relate to inmates in the Department of Corrections.
(3) Develop and recommend to the Governor and the Legislature an annual budget for all or part of the operation of the State of Florida prison health care system.
(4) Review and advise the Secretary of Corrections on contracts between the Department of Corrections and third parties for quality management programs.
(5) Review and advise the Secretary of Corrections on minimum standards needed to ensure that an adequate physical and mental health care delivery system is maintained by the Department of Corrections.
(6) Review and advise the Secretary of Corrections on the sufficiency, adequacy, and effectiveness of the Department of Corrections’ Office of Health Services’ quality management program.
(7) Review and advise the Secretary of Corrections on the projected medical needs of the inmate population and the types of programs and resources required to meet such needs.
(8) Review and advise the Secretary of Corrections on the adequacy of preservice, inservice, and continuing medical education programs for all health care personnel and, if necessary, recommend changes to such programs within the Department of Corrections.
(9) Identify and recommend to the Secretary of Corrections the professional incentives required to attract and retain qualified professional health care staff within the prison health care system.
(10) Coordinate the development of prospective payment arrangements as described in s. 408.50 when appropriate for the acquisition of inmate health care services.
(11) Review the Department of Corrections’ health services plan and advise the Secretary of Corrections on its implementation.
(12) Sue and be sued in its own name and plead and be impleaded.
(13) Make and execute agreements of lease, contracts, deeds, mortgages, notes, and other instruments necessary or convenient in the exercise of its powers and functions under this act.
(14) Employ or contract with health care providers, medical personnel, management consultants, consulting engineers, architects, surveyors, attorneys, accountants, financial experts, and such other employees, entities, or agents as may be necessary in its judgment to carry out the mandates of the Correctional Medical Authority and fix their compensation.
(15) Recommend to the Legislature such performance and financial audits of the Office of Health Services in the Department of Corrections as the authority considers advisable.
History.—s. 19, ch. 86-183; s. 1, ch. 87-50; s. 86, ch. 88-122; s. 14, ch. 89-531; s. 2, ch. 90-83; s. 5, ch. 91-429; s. 105, ch. 92-33; s. 2, ch. 92-47; s. 17, ch. 96-312; s. 117, ch. 97-237.
945.6031 Required reports and surveys.—
(1) Not less than annually, the authority shall report to the Governor and the Legislature the status of the Department of Corrections’ health care delivery system. The report must include, but need not be limited to:
(a) Recommendations regarding cost containment measures the Department of Corrections could implement; and
(b) Recommendations regarding performance and financial audits of the Department of Corrections’ Office of Health Services.
(2) The authority shall conduct surveys of the physical and mental health care system at each correctional institution at least triennially and shall report the survey findings for each institution to the Secretary of Corrections.
(3) Deficiencies found by the authority to be life-threatening or otherwise serious shall be immediately reported to the Secretary of Corrections. The Department of Corrections shall take immediate action to correct life-threatening or otherwise serious deficiencies identified by the authority and within 3 calendar days file a written corrective action plan with the authority indicating the actions that will be taken to address the deficiencies. Within 60 calendar days following a survey, the authority shall submit a report to the Secretary of Corrections indicating deficiencies found at the institution.
(4) Within 30 calendar days after the receipt of a survey report from the authority, the Department of Corrections shall file a written corrective action plan with the authority, indicating the actions which will be taken to address deficiencies determined by the authority to exist at an institution. Each plan shall set forth an estimate of the time and resources needed to correct identified deficiencies.
(5) The authority shall monitor the Department of Corrections’ implementation of corrective actions which have been taken at each institution to address deficiencies related to the Department of Corrections’ provision of physical and mental health care services found to exist by the authority.
(6) Failure of the Department of Corrections to file a corrective action plan or to timely implement the provisions of a corrective action plan correcting identified deficiencies may result in the initiation of the dispute resolution procedures by the authority pursuant to s. 945.6035.
History.—s. 3, ch. 90-83; s. 32, ch. 91-201; s. 5, ch. 91-429; s. 3, ch. 92-47; s. 22, ch. 95-325; s. 18, ch. 96-312; s. 118, ch. 97-237.
945.6032 Quality management program requirements.—
(1) The authority shall appoint a medical review committee pursuant to s. 766.101 to provide oversight for the Department of Corrections’ inmate health care quality management program. The authority shall also designate one of its members to serve on the Department of Corrections’ medical review committee in order to ensure coordination between the department and the authority with regard to issues of quality management and to enhance the authority’s oversight of the Department of Corrections’ quality management system.
(2) The authority’s medical review committee shall review amendments to the Department of Corrections’ inmate health care quality management program prior to implementation by the department.
(3) The findings and recommendations of a medical review committee created by the authority or the department pursuant to s. 766.101 are confidential and exempt from the provisions of s. 119.07(1) and s. 24(a), Art. I of the State Constitution, and any proceedings of the committee are exempt from the provisions of s. 286.011 and s. 24(b), Art. I of the State Constitution.
History.—s. 4, ch. 90-83; s. 32, ch. 91-201; s. 5, ch. 91-429; s. 4, ch. 92-47; s. 2, ch. 94-73; s. 449, ch. 96-406; s. 119, ch. 97-237.
945.6033 Continuing contracts with health care providers.—The Department of Corrections may enter into continuing contracts with licensed health care providers, including hospitals and health maintenance organizations, for the provision of inmate health care services which the department is unable to provide in its facilities.
History.—s. 87, ch. 88-122.
945.6034 Minimum health care standards.—
(1) The Assistant Secretary for Health Services is responsible for developing a comprehensive health care delivery system and promulgating all department health care standards. Such health care standards shall include, but are not limited to, rules relating to the management structure of the health care system and the provision of health care services to inmates, health care policies, health care plans, quality management systems and procedures, health service bulletins, and treatment protocols.
(2) The department shall submit all health care standards to the authority for review prior to adoption. The authority shall review all department health care standards to determine whether they conform to the standard of care generally accepted in the professional health community at large.
(3) The department shall comply with all adopted department health care standards. Failure of the department to comply with the standards may result in a dispute resolution proceeding brought by the authority pursuant to s. 945.6035, but shall not create a cause of action for any third parties, including inmates or former inmates.
History.—s. 5, ch. 92-47.
945.6035 Dispute resolution.—
(1) The authority and the Assistant Secretary for Health Services shall attempt to expeditiously resolve any disputes arising between the authority and the department regarding the physical and mental health care of inmates.
(2) If the authority and the Assistant Secretary for Health Services are unable to resolve a dispute regarding inmate physical or mental health care, the authority may submit a written notice to the Assistant Secretary for Health Services, setting forth each issue in controversy and the position of the authority. The Assistant Secretary for Health Services shall respond to the authority within 30 days after receipt of such written notice. The authority shall place the assistant secretary’s response on the agenda of the next regularly scheduled meeting of the authority. If the dispute remains unresolved, the authority may submit a written report to the secretary detailing the authority’s objections. The Assistant Secretary for Health Services shall submit a written report setting forth his or her position to the secretary on the issue or issues raised by the authority within 5 working days after receipt of the submission by the authority.
(3) The secretary shall review any disputes between the authority and the Assistant Secretary for Health Services, and shall provide written notice to the authority of his or her decision regarding such disputes within 40 days after the date when the authority provides written notice of the dispute to the secretary.
(4) If, at the end of the 40-day period, no resolution has been reached, the authority is authorized to appeal to the Administration Commission for a review and resolution of the dispute between the department and the authority.
(5) The authority, within 30 days after receiving written notice of the action of the secretary or, if no response is received, within 30 days after the secretary’s response is due pursuant to subsection (3), may file an appeal by petition to the Administration Commission, filed with the Secretary of the Administration Commission. The petition shall set forth the issues in controversy between the authority and the department, in the form and manner prescribed by the Administration Commission, and shall contain the reasons for the appeal. The department has 5 days after delivery of a copy of any such petition to file its reply with the Secretary of the Administration Commission, and the department shall also deliver a copy of its reply to the authority.
(6) The issues which may be raised by the authority on appeal to the Administration Commission are:
(a) Adoption or implementation by the department of a health care standard which does not conform to the standard of care generally accepted in the professional health community at large.
(b) Failure of the department to comply with an adopted health care standard.
(c) Failure to timely file a corrective action plan regarding all deficiencies which are determined by the authority to exist at an institution, as required pursuant to s. 945.6031.
(d) Failure to implement a corrective action plan filed pursuant to s. 945.6031.
(7) Within 30 days after receipt of a petition from the authority, the Secretary of the Administration Commission, or his or her designee, shall conduct an informal hearing to consider the matters presented in the petition and the reply, and after the informal hearing shall promptly submit a report of the findings and recommendations to the Administration Commission. Within 30 days after the informal hearing, the Administration Commission shall approve either the position of the authority or that of the department. If the position of the authority is approved, the Administration Commission shall set forth whatever remedial measures it deems appropriate and the department shall implement such remedial measures. The decision of the Administration Commission is final and binding on the authority and the department and shall not be subject to appeal pursuant to s. 120.68.
History.—s. 22, ch. 86-183; s. 1, ch. 87-50; s. 5, ch. 91-429; s. 6, ch. 92-47; s. 1664, ch. 97-102.
945.6036 Enforcement.—
(1) If the department fails to substantially comply with the dispute resolution decision of the Administration Commission or fails to implement required remedial action within 45 days after such decision or within the time period set by the Administration Commission, whichever period is longer, the authority is authorized to petition the Circuit Court in Leon County for an order requiring the department to comply. For the purposes of this section, “substantial compliance” means a firm effort to comply fully with the decision without omitting any essential part, and that any omission consists solely of an unimportant defect.
(2) If the authority fails to initiate a circuit court proceeding pursuant to this section, an inmate has the right to file a verified petition with the authority requesting that such a proceeding be initiated. The petition shall set forth with particularity the manner in which the department has failed to implement the decision of the Administration Commission, including any required remedial actions. The authority has 45 days after receipt of a verified petition to either initiate an action in circuit court pursuant to this section or advise the inmate in writing of the reason such an action will not be initiated.
(3) Within 30 days after service of the written decision of the authority setting forth its reason why an action will not be initiated by the authority pursuant to this section, an inmate may initiate an appropriate proceeding in the Circuit Court in Leon County to require the department to substantially comply with the decision of the Administration Commission.
History.—s. 7, ch. 92-47.
945.6037 Nonemergency health care; inmate copayments.—
(1)(a) For each nonemergency visit by an inmate to a health care provider which is initiated by the inmate, the inmate must make a copayment of $5. A copayment may not be charged for the required initial medical history and physical examination of the inmate.
(b) The copayment for an inmate’s health care must be deducted from any existing balance in the inmate’s bank account. If the account balance is insufficient to cover the copayment, 50 percent of each deposit to the account must be withheld until the total amount owed has been paid.
(c) The proceeds of each copayment must be deposited into the State-Operated Institutions Inmate Welfare Trust Fund pursuant to s. 945.215(1)(d) or into the General Revenue Fund as provided in s. 945.215(2)(b).
(d) The department may waive all or part of the copayment for an inmate’s visit to a health care provider if the health care:
1. Is provided in connection with an extraordinary event that could not reasonably be foreseen, such as a disturbance or a natural disaster;
2. Is an institutionwide health care measure that is necessary to address the spread of specific infectious or contagious diseases;
3. Is provided under a contractual obligation that is established under the Interstate Corrections Compact or under an agreement with another jurisdiction which precludes assessing such a copayment;
4. Was initiated by the health care provider or consists of routine follow-up care;
5. Is initiated by the inmate to voluntarily request an HIV test;
6. Produces an outcome that requires medical action to protect staff or inmates from a communicable disease; or
7. When the inmate is referred to mental health evaluation or treatment by a correctional officer, correctional probation officer, or other person supervising an inmate worker.
(2) The department may provide by rule for a supplemental copayment for a medical consultation relating to an inmate’s health care and occurring outside the prison or for a prosthetic device for an inmate. The supplemental copayment must be used to defray all or part of the security costs associated with the surveillance and transport of the inmate to the outside consultation or with the fitting and maintenance of the prosthetic device. The proceeds of each supplemental copayment must be deposited into the General Revenue Fund.
(3)(a) An inmate may not be denied access to health care as a result of not paying any copayment or supplemental copayment that is provided for in this section.
(b) An inmate must not be given preferential access to health care as a result of paying any copayment or supplemental copayment that is provided for in this section.
(c) The expenses and operating capital outlay required to develop, implement, and maintain the medical copayment accounting system must be appropriated by the Legislature.
History.—s. 7, ch. 94-273; s. 33, ch. 95-283; s. 7, ch. 97-260; s. 12, ch. 2003-179; s. 6, ch. 2009-63; s. 2, ch. 2023-244.
945.6038 Inmate litigation costs.—
(1) The department shall charge an inmate for the following and place a lien on the inmate’s trust fund account if the inmate has insufficient funds at the time the charges are imposed:
(a) Costs of duplication of documents and accompanying evidentiary materials needed to initiate civil proceedings in judicial or administrative forums or that must be filed or served in a pending civil proceeding. The following costs are authorized:
1. Up to 15 cents per one-sided copy for duplicated copies of not more than 14 inches by 81/2 inches; or
2. For all other copies, the actual cost of duplication.
(b) Postage and any special delivery charges, if required by law or rule, for mail to courts, attorneys, parties, and other persons required to be served.
(2) The department shall adopt rules pursuant to ss. 120.536(1) and 120.54 to implement this section.
(3) This section is not intended to create any legal rights or obligations that do not otherwise exist. This section is not intended to limit or preclude the department from charging for duplication of its records as allowed under chapter 119, nor is it intended to create a right to substitute a lien in lieu of payment for public records.
History.—s. 1, ch. 2006-294.
945.604 Medical claims.—
(1) DEFINITION OF “CLAIM.”—As used in this section, for a noninstitutional health care provider the term “claim” means a paper or electronic billing instrument submitted to the department which consists of the HCFA 1500 data set, or its successor, and has all mandatory entries for a physician licensed under chapter 458, chapter 459, chapter 460, chapter 461, or chapter 463 or a psychologist licensed under chapter 490, or any appropriate billing instrument that has all mandatory entries for any other noninstitutional health care provider. For an institutional health care provider, the term “claim” means a paper or electronic billing instrument submitted to the department which consists of the UB-92 data set, or its successor, with entries stated as mandatory by the National Uniform Billing Committee.
(2) SUBMISSION DATE.—Claims for payment or underpayment are considered submitted on the date the claim for payment is mailed or electronically transferred to the department by the health care provider. Claims for overpayment are considered submitted on the date the claim for overpayment is mailed or electronically transferred to the health care provider by the department.
(3) CLAIMS FOR PAYMENT OR UNDERPAYMENT.—
(a) Claims for payment or underpayment must be submitted to the department within 6 months after the following have occurred:
1. The discharge of the inmate for inpatient services rendered to the inmate or the date of service for outpatient services rendered to the inmate; and
2. The health care provider has been furnished with the correct name and address of the department.
(b) Claims for payment or underpayment must not duplicate a claim previously submitted unless it is determined the original claim was not received or is otherwise lost.
(c) The department is not obligated to pay claims for payment or underpayment which were not submitted in accordance with paragraph (a).
(4) CLAIMS FOR OVERPAYMENT.—
(a) If the department determines that it has made an overpayment to a health care provider for services rendered to an inmate, it must make a claim for such overpayment to the provider’s designated location. The department shall provide a written or electronic statement specifying the basis for overpayment. The department must identify the claim or claims, or overpayment claim portion thereof, for which a claim for overpayment is submitted.
(b) The department must submit a claim for overpayment to a health care provider within 30 months after the department’s payment of the claim, except that claims for overpayment may be submitted beyond that time from providers convicted of fraud pursuant to s. 817.234.
(c) Health care providers are not obligated to pay claims for overpayment which were not submitted in accordance with paragraph (b).
(d) A health care provider must pay, deny, or contest the department’s claim for overpayment within 40 days after the receipt of the claim for overpayment.
(e) A health care provider that denies or contests the department’s claim for overpayment or any portion of a claim shall notify the department, in writing, within 40 days after the provider receives the claim. The notice that the claim for overpayment is denied or contested must identify the contested portion of the claim and the specific reason for contesting or denying the claim and, if contested, must include a request for additional information.
(f) All contested claims for overpayment must be paid or denied within 120 days after receipt of the claim. Failure to pay or deny the claim for overpayment within 140 days after receipt creates an uncontestable obligation to pay the claim.
(g) The department may not reduce payment to the health care provider for other services unless the provider agrees to the reduction or fails to respond to the department’s claim for overpayment as required by this subsection.
(5) NONWAIVER OF PROVISIONS.—The provisions of this section may not be waived, voided, or nullified by contract.
History.—s. 7, ch. 2009-63.
945.6041 Inmate medical services.—
(1) As used in this section, the term:
(a) “Emergency medical transportation services” includes, but is not limited to, services rendered by ambulances, emergency medical services vehicles, and air ambulances as those terms are defined in s. 401.23.
(b) “Health care provider” means:
1. A hospital licensed under chapter 395.
2. A physician or physician assistant licensed under chapter 458.
3. An osteopathic physician or physician assistant licensed under chapter 459.
4. A podiatric physician licensed under chapter 461.
5. A health maintenance organization certificated under part I of chapter 641.
6. An ambulatory surgical center licensed under chapter 395.
7. A professional association, partnership, corporation, joint venture, or other association established by the individuals set forth in subparagraphs 2., 3., and 4. for professional activity.
8. An other medical facility.
a. As used in this subparagraph, the term “other medical facility” means:
(I) A facility the primary purpose of which is to provide human medical diagnostic services, or a facility providing nonsurgical human medical treatment which discharges patients on the same working day that the patients are admitted; and
(II) A facility that is not part of a hospital.
b. The term does not include a facility existing for the primary purpose of performing terminations of pregnancy, or an office maintained by a physician or dentist for the practice of medicine.
(2) Compensation to a health care provider to provide inmate medical services may not exceed 110 percent of the Medicare allowable rate if the health care provider does not have a contract to provide services with the department or the contractor-operated correctional facility, as defined in s. 944.710, which houses the inmate. However, compensation to a health care provider may not exceed 125 percent of the Medicare allowable rate if:
(a) The health care provider does not have a contract to provide services with the department or the contractor-operated correctional facility, as defined in s. 944.710, which houses the inmate; and
(b) The health care provider reported a negative operating margin for the previous year to the Agency for Health Care Administration through hospital-audited financial data.
(3) Compensation to an entity to provide emergency medical transportation services for inmates may not exceed 110 percent of the Medicare allowable rate if the entity does not have a contract with the department or a contractor-operated correctional facility, as defined in s. 944.710, to provide the services.
(4) This section does not apply to charges for medical services provided at a hospital operated by the department.
History.—s. 8, ch. 2009-63; s. 64, ch. 2022-138; s. 39, ch. 2024-84.
945.6402 Inmate health care advance directives.—
(1) DEFINITIONS.—The terms used in this section have the same meanings as in s. 765.101 unless otherwise specified in this section. For purposes of this section, the term:
(a) “Health care facility” has the same meaning as in s. 765.101 and includes any correctional institution or facility where health care is provided.
(b) “Incapacity” or “incompetent” means an inmate is physically or mentally unable to communicate a willful and knowing health care decision.
(c) “Informed consent” means consent voluntarily given by an inmate after a sufficient explanation and disclosure of the subject matter involved to enable the inmate to have a general understanding of the treatment or procedure and the medically acceptable alternatives, including the substantial risks and hazards inherent in the proposed treatment or procedures, and to make a knowing health care decision without coercion or undue influence.
(d) “Inmate” means any person committed to the custody of the department.
(e) “Ombudsman” means an individual designated and specifically trained by the department to identify conditions that may pose a threat to the rights, health, safety, and welfare of inmates in a health care facility and who may be appointed to serve as a proxy for an inmate who is physically or mentally unable to communicate a willful and knowing health care decision.
(f) “Proxy” means a competent adult who has not been expressly designated to make health care decisions for a particular incapacitated inmate, but who, nevertheless, is authorized pursuant to s. 765.401 and as specified in this section to make health care decisions for such inmate.
(g) “Proxy review team” means a team of at least five members, appointed by the Assistant Secretary for Health Services. The team shall be composed of, at a minimum, one physician licensed pursuant to chapter 458 or chapter 459, one psychologist licensed pursuant to chapter 490, one nurse licensed pursuant to chapter 464, and one department chaplain.
(2) LEGISLATIVE FINDINGS AND INTENT.—
(a) In accordance with chapter 765, the Legislature finds that an inmate retains the fundamental right of self-determination regarding decisions pertaining to his or her own health, including the right to choose or refuse medical treatment. In accordance with chapter 765, this right is subject to certain institutional interests including the protection of human life; the preservation of ethical standards in the medical profession; and, for inmates committed to the custody of the department, the security and good order of the institutional setting.
(b) To ensure that such right is not lost or diminished by virtue of later physical or mental incapacity, the Legislature intends that the procedures specified in chapter 765, and as modified in this section for the institutional health care setting, apply to incarcerated inmates. These procedures should be less expensive and less restrictive than guardianship and allow an inmate to plan for incapacity by executing a document or orally designating another person to direct the course of his or her health care or receive his or her health information, or both, upon his or her incapacity. These procedures permit a previously incapacitated inmate to exercise his or her full right to make health care decisions as soon as the capacity to make such decisions has been regained.
(c) In order to ensure that the rights and intentions of an inmate are respected when the inmate is not able to participate actively in decisions concerning himself or herself, and to encourage communication among such inmate, his or her family, and his or her treating physicians, the Legislature declares that the laws of this state recognize the right of a competent incarcerated adult to make an advance directive instructing his or her physicians to provide, withhold, or withdraw life-prolonging procedures or to designate another person to make the health care decision for him or her in the event that such incarcerated person should become incapacitated and unable to personally direct his or her health care. It is further the intent of the Legislature that the department provide the opportunity for inmates to make advance directives as specified in this section.
(d) The Legislature further recognizes that incarcerated inmates may not avail themselves of the opportunity to make an advance directive or, because of incarceration, may not have a surrogate, as defined in s. 765.101, willing, able, or reasonably available to make health care decisions on his or her behalf. Additionally, because of incarceration, the individuals designated in s. 765.401 who are eligible to serve as an appointed proxy may not be reasonably available, willing, or competent to make health care decisions for the inmate in the event of incapacity. Thus, it is the intent of the Legislature that the department have an efficient process that is less expensive and less restrictive than guardianship for the appointment of a proxy to allow for the expedient delivery of necessary health care to an incarcerated inmate.
(e) This section does not supersede the process for inmate involuntary mental health treatment in ss. 945.40-945.49.
(3) CAPACITY OF INMATE; PROCEDURE.—
(a) An inmate is presumed to be capable of making health care decisions for himself or herself unless he or she is determined to be incapacitated. When an inmate has decisionmaking capacity, the inmate’s wishes are controlling. Each physician or health care provider must clearly communicate the treatment plan and any change to the treatment plan before implementation of the plan or any change to the plan. Incapacity may not be inferred from an inmate’s involuntary hospitalization for mental illness or from his or her intellectual disability.
(b) If an inmate’s capacity to make health care decisions for himself or herself or provide informed consent is in question, the inmate’s treating physician at the health care facility where the inmate is located shall evaluate the inmate’s capacity and, if the evaluating physician concludes that the inmate lacks capacity, enter that evaluation in the inmate’s medical record. If the evaluating physician has a question as to whether the inmate lacks capacity, another physician shall also evaluate the inmate’s capacity, and if the second physician finds that the inmate lacks the capacity to make health care decisions for himself or herself or provide informed consent, both physicians’ evaluations shall be entered in the inmate’s medical record.
(c) If the inmate is found to be incapacitated and has designated a health care surrogate in accordance with chapter 765, the institution’s or facility’s health care staff shall notify the surrogate and proceed as specified in chapter 765. If the incapacitated inmate has not designated a health care surrogate, the health care facility shall appoint a proxy to make health care decisions for the inmate as specified in this section.
(d) A determination made pursuant to this section that an inmate lacks the capacity to make health care decisions for himself or herself may not be construed as a finding that an inmate lacks capacity for any other purpose.
(4) HEALTH CARE ADVANCE DIRECTIVE; PROCEDURE.—
(a) In accordance with chapter 765, the department shall offer inmates the opportunity to execute an advance directive as defined in s. 765.101.
(b) The department shall provide to each inmate written information concerning advance directives and necessary forms to allow inmates to execute an advance directive. The department and its health care providers shall document in the inmate’s medical records whether the inmate has executed an advance directive. Neither the department nor its health care providers may require an inmate to execute an advance directive using the department’s forms. The inmate’s advance directive shall travel with the inmate within the department as part of the inmate’s medical record.
(c) An advance directive may be amended or revoked at any time by a competent inmate by means of:
1. A signed, dated writing of intent to amend or revoke;
2. The physical cancellation or destruction of the advance directive by the inmate or by another person in the inmate’s presence and at the inmate’s direction;
3. An oral expression of intent to amend or revoke; or
4. A subsequently executed advance directive that is materially different from a previously executed advance directive.
(5) PROXY.—
(a) If an incapacitated inmate has not executed an advance directive, or designated a health care surrogate in accordance with the procedures specified in chapter 765 or the designated health care surrogate is no longer available to make health care decisions, health care decisions may be made for the inmate by any of the individuals specified in the priority order provided in s. 765.401(1)(a)-(g) as proxy. Documentation of the efforts to locate a proxy from the classes specified in s. 765.401(1)(a)-(g) shall be recorded in the inmate’s medical file.
(b) If there are no individuals as specified in s. 765.401(1)(a)-(g) available, willing, or competent to act on behalf of the inmate, and the inmate is housed in a correctional institution or facility where health care is provided in a nonhospital setting, the warden of the institution where the inmate is housed, or the warden’s designee, shall consult with the Assistant Secretary for Health Services or his or her designee who shall appoint a department ombudsman to serve as the proxy. This appointment terminates when the inmate regains capacity or is no longer incarcerated in the custody of the department. In accordance with chapter 765 and as provided in this section, decisions to withhold or withdraw life-prolonging procedures will be reviewed by the department’s proxy review team for compliance with chapter 765 and the requirements of this section.
(c) The ombudsman appointed to serve as the proxy is authorized to request the assistance of the treating physician and, upon request, a second physician not involved in the inmate’s care to assist the proxy in evaluating the inmate’s treatment.
(d) In accordance with chapter 765, any health care decision made by any appointed proxy under this section must be based on the proxy’s informed consent and on the decision that the proxy reasonably believes the inmate would have made under the circumstances. If there is no indication of what decision the inmate would have made, the proxy may consider the inmate’s best interest in deciding that proposed treatments are to be withheld or that treatments currently in effect are to be withdrawn.
(e) Before exercising the incapacitated inmate’s rights to select or decline health care, the proxy must comply with ss. 765.205 and 765.305, except that any proxy’s decision to withhold or withdraw life-prolonging procedures must be supported by clear and convincing evidence that the decision would have been the one the inmate would have made had he or she been competent or, if there is no indication of what decision the inmate would have made, that the decision is in the inmate’s best interest.
(f) Notwithstanding s. 456.057 and pursuant to s. 945.10 and 45 C.F.R. part 164, subpart E, relevant protected health information and mental health and medical records of an incapacitated inmate may be disclosed to a proxy appointed to make health care decisions for an inmate.
(6) USE OF FORCE.—In addition to s. 944.35(1), an employee of the department may apply reasonable physical force upon an incapacitated inmate to administer medical treatment only by or under the clinical supervision of a physician or his or her designee and only to carry out a health care decision made in accordance with this section and chapter 765.
(7) IMMUNITY FROM LIABILITY.—A department health care provider, ombudsman, or other employee who acts under the direction of a health care provider as authorized in this section or chapter 765 is not subject to criminal prosecution or civil liability and may not be deemed to have engaged in unprofessional conduct as a result of carrying out a health care decision made in accordance with this section or chapter 765 on an inmate’s behalf.
History.—s. 18, ch. 2025-81.
945.71 Inmate training programs; intent and purposes.—It is the intent of ss. 945.71-945.74 to authorize the establishment of structured disciplinary training programs within the Department of Corrections expressly intended to instill self-discipline, improve work habits, and improve self-confidence for inmates.
History.—s. 24, ch. 92-310.
945.72 Eligibility and screening of inmates.—
(1) The provisions of ss. 945.71-945.74 apply to all eligible inmates in state correctional institutions.
(2) Upon receipt of an inmate into the prison system, the department shall screen the inmate for the training program. To participate, an inmate must have no physical limitations which would preclude participation in strenuous activity and must not be impaired. In screening an inmate for the training program, the department shall consider the inmate’s criminal history and the possible rehabilitative benefits of “shock” incarceration.
History.—s. 25, ch. 92-310.
945.73 Inmate training program operation.—
(1) The department shall, subject to specific legislative appropriation, develop and implement training programs for eligible inmates which include, but are not limited to, marching drills, calisthenics, a rigid dress code, work assignments, physical training, training in decisionmaking and personal development, drug counseling, education, and rehabilitation.
(2) Only inmates eligible for control release pursuant to s. 947.146 shall be permitted to participate in the training program.
(3) The inmate training program shall provide a short incarceration period of rigorous training to inmates who require a greater degree of supervision than is provided for those on community control or probation. The inmate training program is not intended to divert offenders away from probation or community control, but to divert them from long periods of incarceration when a short “shock” incarceration could produce the same deterrent effect.
(4) Upon an inmate’s completion of the inmate training program, the department shall submit a report to the releasing authority that describes the inmate’s performance. If the performance has been satisfactory, the releasing authority shall establish a release date which is within 30 days following program completion. As a condition of release, the inmate shall be placed on community supervision as provided in chapter 947, and shall be subject to the conditions established therefor.
(5) If an inmate in the training program becomes unmanageable, the department may place the inmate in the general inmate population to complete the remainder of his or her sentence. Any period of time in which the inmate is unable to participate in the inmate training program activities may be excluded from the specified time requirements in the inmate training program. The portion of the sentence served prior to placement in the inmate training program shall not be counted toward program completion.
(6) The department shall work cooperatively with the Control Release Authority, the Florida Commission on Offender Review, or such other authority as may exist or be established in the future which is empowered by law to effect the release of an inmate who has successfully completed the requirements established by ss. 945.71-945.74.
(7) The department shall provide a special training program for staff selected to operate the inmate training program.
History.—s. 26, ch. 92-310; s. 1665, ch. 97-102; s. 114, ch. 2013-18; s. 39, ch. 2014-191.
945.74 Implementation.—The department shall implement the inmate training program to the fullest extent feasible within the parameters of ss. 945.71-945.74.
History.—s. 27, ch. 92-310; s. 89, ch. 2000-158.