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Governor Ron DeSantis’ Framework for Freedom Budget Provides Critical Services for Floridians

TALLAHASSEE, Fla.— Yesterday, Governor Ron DeSantis approved more than $2 billion for individuals and families served through the Agency for Persons with Disabilities (APD). The Framework for Freedom budget demonstrates Florida’s continued commitment to ensuring that all Floridians have opportunities to thrive and access quality services.

“We are incredibly thankful for the leadership of Governor DeSantis and the Florida Legislature for their unwavering support of individuals and families seeking assistance through APD,” said APD Director Taylor Hatch. “Prioritizing critical funding for this sacred population of Floridians promotes service delivery that enhances well-being while furthering the system of care.”

Specifically, Governor DeSantis is supporting Florida families with these key investments:

• $79.6 million to support individuals in receiving appropriate and necessary services to both stabilize and achieve a state of thriving.
• $6 million for a rate increase for Waiver Support Coordinators that provide service coordination for individuals enrolled on the Florida iBudget Home and Community-Based Services waiver.
• $3.4 million to provide education and training as well as critical subject matter expertise within Mobile Response teaming models to provide on-demand mental health crisis support to reduce trauma and bolster services.
• More than $530,000 to ensure transparency and accountability through the licensing and monitoring of Adult Day Training providers. This funding will provide the opportunity to reinforce best practices while also ensuring quality service delivery.

To learn more about the Governor’s Framework for Freedom budget, visit budget highlights.

APD supports people with developmental disabilities in living, learning, and working within their communities. The agency annually serves more than 60,000 Floridians with severe forms of autism, cerebral palsy, spina bifida, intellectual disabilities, Down syndrome, Phelan-McDermid syndrome, and Prader-Willi syndrome. For more information about the agency, visit APDcares.org, or call toll-free 1-866-APD-CARES (1-866-273-2273).

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