Florida has passed a series of impactful legislative updates in 2025 that directly affect disability services. These new Florida laws 2025 aim to expand access, improve transparency, and offer more flexibility to individuals with disabilities and their families.
Whether you’re navigating Medicaid, developmental disability supports, or educational resources, these changes could significantly alter how services are delivered in the state.
Let’s break down the most important legislative changes and what they mean for you.
1. Expansion of the Medicaid iBudget Waiver Program
One of the most notable updates is the expansion of Florida’s Medicaid iBudget waiver through a newly enacted law (HB 1103). Previously capped to a small pilot group, the program has now been opened statewide. This waiver helps individuals with developmental disabilities receive personalized support and services while living in the community.
What’s new:
- The 600-person limit on the pilot program has been lifted.
- Thousands more individuals waiting for services may now become eligible.
- The Agency for Persons with Disabilities (APD) is required to resume publishing data about service levels and regional waitlists, helping families understand what to expect.
Why it matters:
Families on long waitlists finally have a chance to access critical services, and the new transparency requirements ensure agencies remain accountable.
2. Crisis Enrollment and Local Family Representation
Companion bills SB 1050 and HB 1103 introduced significant structural updates to how families access services and participate in system feedback.
Key provisions include:
- A new “crisis enrollment” feature must be included in online applications, making it easier for individuals in urgent need to access services.
- APD must publish and maintain a directory of available service providers by region.
- Local Family Care Councils are now required to provide annual reports with suggestions for system improvements, giving families a formal voice in state disability policy.
Why it matters:
These changes make it easier for families to access help quickly in emergencies and promote long-term system improvements driven by those with lived experience.
3. More Control Through Consumer-Directed Care
Senate Bill 1758 brings more autonomy to families and individuals by strengthening the Consumer-Directed Care Plus (CDC+) option.
What’s changing:
- Families will now be clearly informed about the option to self-direct services through CDC+ during their iBudget enrollment.
- The application process for APD services will become fully digital, simplifying and accelerating access.
- Individuals caring for loved ones aged 60 and older (previously 70) will now receive higher prioritization in service categories.
Why it matters:
These changes make it easier to apply, provide more control over who delivers care, and prioritize support for aging caregivers earlier than before.
4. Stronger Autism Support Programs
SB 112, signed into law in 2025, targets early intervention, education, and safety for individuals with autism and related developmental disabilities.
Highlights include:
- Expanded access to Early Steps programs until age four, allowing for a smoother transition into school.
- Funding for summer educational programs and autism-focused charter schools.
- Increased coordination with institutions like the University of Florida to improve program oversight and delivery.
Why it matters:
Children on the spectrum will benefit from earlier detection, consistent services during key developmental stages, and educational options designed to fit their needs.
5. Health Care Flexibility for Group Home Residents
With HB 1567, the state has authorized trained caregivers and family members in APD-operated or licensed homes to administer insulin under defined safety guidelines.
Key elements:
- Direct-support professionals (DSPs) can administer insulin, including sliding-scale therapy, with proper training and documentation.
- Individuals can also self-administer insulin and epinephrine, offering more independence.
- Legal protections are in place for both caregivers and facilities following the law.
Why it matters:
This law reduces the need for external medical visits and empowers caregivers to manage urgent health needs safely and promptly within familiar environments.
6. Continuous Medicaid Eligibility for Permanently Disabled Adults
A separate bill (SB 7032 and related HB 1227) addresses a long-standing concern for disabled adults on Medicaid. The law introduces a presumption of continued eligibility during annual redeterminations for individuals with permanent disabilities.
What’s new:
- Medicaid recipients won’t lose coverage while their eligibility is under review.
- The Agency for Health Care Administration (AHCA) must continue payments during this time.
- The state is also seeking federal approval to eliminate annual redetermination for those with permanent conditions.
Why it matters:
This legislation prevents service interruptions that can be devastating for individuals with lifelong disabilities who rely on consistent access to care and medications.
Conclusion
The new Florida laws 2025 bring important improvements in access, transparency, and flexibility for disability services. These changes offer families more control, faster support, and stronger protections. Staying informed and seeking guidance when needed will help ensure you benefit fully from these updates.
Read more: teachdiary.com