Bipartisan legislation has been introduced in the Florida Legislature, aligning with HCAF's key policy priorities for the 2024 Florida Legislative Session, set to commence on January 9, 2024. SB 1798, introduced by Senator Jay Trumbull (R-Panama City), and HB 935, introduced by Representative Gallop Franklin II (D-Tallahassee), aim to address the following critical issues and enhance home health care services.

• Authorization for Contract Staff: The proposed legislation acknowledges the crucial role contract nurses play in mitigating workforce shortages and ensuring consistent patient care. Presently, restrictions limit their ability to conduct specific patient visits, creating challenges in delivering timely and flexible skilled nursing care, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic. The amendment to §400.487(5) of Florida Statutes seeks to alleviate these constraints and enhance patient care access.
• Advanced Practice Registered Nurses (APRNs): In response to the pressing health care workforce shortage, the bill addresses obstacles faced by APRNs. While progress has been made, current state law impedes APRNs from ordering home health services and obtaining Medicaid reimbursement. This contradicts federal guidelines outlined in the federal CARES Act. The proposed legislation aims to align state laws with federal provisions, enabling APRNs to provide comprehensive care to vulnerable populations.

This legislative initiative underscores Florida's commitment to fostering accessible, cost-effective, and high-quality health care. Stay tuned for updates as SB 1798/HB 935 progress through the legislative process. If approved by the legislature and the Governor, the effective date for SB 1798/HB 935 is slated for July 1, 2024.

To access the continually updated listing of state legislation actively monitored by the HCAF policy team, please click here for the members-only legislation tracker. We encourage you to bookmark this page to stay informed about upcoming policy developments.

Advocate With HCAF at Home Care Day at the Capitol

Join fellow home care industry advocates at Home Care Day at the Capitol on January 24-25, 2024. This free advocacy event aligns with the annual 60-day Florida Legislative Session, providing a timely opportunity to engage with state lawmakers and advance key industry policy priorities.

Your participation helps convey a unified message to lawmakers, emphasizing our commitment to strengthening the home care sector, ensuring equitable Medicaid reimbursement, reducing burdensome regulations, and safeguarding access to high-quality, cost-effective home care.

Not comfortable with politics? No worries! HCAF will host a welcome reception and policy briefing on Wednesday, January 24, to prepare you and address any questions. Advocates will be assigned to a group with an experienced leader, guiding you through the Capitol on Thursday, January 25. Additionally, HCAF staff will pre-schedule all legislative meetings and provide you with a detailed schedule during the reception.

Click here to learn more and register.

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

The Home Care Political Action Committee (PAC) is dedicated to enhancing the political influence of the home care industry by pooling financial resources and supporting candidates who will effectively represent our interests in Tallahassee. As a voluntary, non-profit, and non-partisan organization, the PAC operates independently of HCAF membership dues and is regulated by the Florida Division of Elections.

Your contribution will have a meaningful impact by supporting Florida political candidates committed to advancing public policies that benefit the home care provider community. Individuals and businesses are welcome to contribute, and there are no contribution limits.

Please join us in the Home Care PAC's fundraising campaign, aiming to raise $50,000 for the 2024 election. Together, we have a significant opportunity to make a lasting impact on the future of home care.

Click here to invest in your profession today!