On Friday, June 20, Representative Gallop Franklin (D-Tallahassee) hosted the first State of Health Roundtable, launching a series of statewide discussions to be held in multiple regions. This kickoff event took place at Jackson North Medical Center in North Miami Beach, bringing together health care leaders, providers, and advocates to discuss Florida’s health system challenges and opportunities following the recent legislative session.

HCAF Executive Director Denise Bellville, RN, BS, COS-C, participated as a panelist, highlighting the critical role of home health agencies in delivering high-quality in-home care and addressing the state’s severe workforce shortages. The discussion also covered provider models, collaboration across health systems, and potential federal Medicaid funding changes.

Representative Franklin emphasized the urgency of these conversations in light of the state’s projected budget shortfall, expected to reach $2.8 billion next year and $6.9 billion the following year. Participants shared practical, frontline perspectives to inform legislative strategies that prioritize health care access and efficiency despite fiscal constraints.

Earlier this year, Representative Franklin championed House Bill 1353, HCAF’s top legislative priority, which modernized outdated home health statutes to reduce regulatory barriers, address workforce shortages, and enhance access to care. Governor DeSantis signed the bill into law last month, and it took effect on July 1, 2025 — marking a major victory for Florida’s home care industry.

HCAF is proud to continue working alongside Representative Franklin to advance home care as a vital solution to Florida’s growing health care needs. We look forward to presenting workforce solutions when the legislature reconvenes for the 2026 session in January.