The Florida Senate unanimously passed one of HCAF's key policy priorities today by a vote of 40-0, marking the final step in the legislative process toward enabling advanced practice registered nurses (APRNs) and physician assistants (PAs) to order and receive reimbursement for Medicaid-funded home health services.

Sponsored by Senator Jay Trumbull (R-Panama City) and Representative Gallop Franklin (D-Tallahassee), SB 1798/HB 935 garnered unanimous support through five committees in both the Senate and the House of Representatives throughout the 60-day session. Pending the Governor's signature, this bipartisan measure will bring Florida in alignment with federal law under the CARES Act, effective July 1, 2024.

Bobby Lolley, RN, Executive Director of HCAF, praised the passage of SB 1798/HB 935, stating, "HCAF and the Florida home care provider community commend Senator Jay Trumbull and Representative Gallop Franklin for their exemplary leadership and unwavering dedication to advancing crucial legislation that will significantly improve access to in-home care for Floridians."

He added, "Their bipartisan efforts, evident in the unanimous passage of SB 1798/HB 935, underscore their commitment to the well-being of our community. We extend our heartfelt appreciation to the entire legislature for their steadfast support in championing this vital cause, ensuring that Medicaid-funded home health services remain accessible to those in need. Together, we're forging a path towards a healthier, more inclusive future for all."

As the 60-day legislative session approaches its conclusion, expected to adjourn this Friday, HCAF remains vigilant, closely monitoring the final days as lawmakers work to finalize the fiscal year 2024-2025 budget, covering the period from July 1, 2024, to June 30, 2025. Stay tuned for a comprehensive recap of the session in an upcoming report, along with detailed discussions during next month's HCAF Governmental Affairs Task Force Meeting scheduled for Wednesday, March 27. Click here for more details.

While this achievement marks a considerable victory for Medicaid providers and recipients, HCAF eagerly looks forward to revisiting the policymaking table during the 2025 legislative session to secure legislative victories for our Medicare-certified home health agency members. We aim to streamline regulations that currently impede providers from leveraging contract nurses for specific patient visits, just one component of a multifaceted strategy to address the ongoing health care workforce shortage.

For an updated list of state and federal legislation actively monitored by the HCAF policy team, please visit our members-only legislation tracker. We encourage you to bookmark this page to stay informed about upcoming policy developments.

Amplify the Voice of Home Care: Support the Home Care PAC!

As the 60-day Florida Legislative Session races towards its conclusion, the Home Care Political Action Committee (PAC) urgently calls for industry support ahead of the pivotal 2024 elections.

The PAC is steadfast in its mission to amplify the political voice of the home care sector. By pooling financial resources and backing candidates who champion our interests in Tallahassee, the PAC plays an indispensable role in shaping policies. As an independent, voluntary, non-profit, and non-partisan entity, we operate autonomously from HCAF membership dues and adhere to strict regulations set by the Florida Division of Elections.

Your contribution carries immense weight in empowering Florida's political leaders who advocate for policies that uplift the home care provider community. We welcome contributions from both individuals and businesses, with no limit on contributions.

Please join us in our fundraising campaign for the Home Care PAC, aiming to secure $50,000 for the 2024 elections.

Click here to invest in your profession today!