Panel advances bill to let APD consolidate forensic care for certain defendants

Sen. Simon told the committee SB778 "updates the definition of forensic client" so that individuals with intellectual disabilities or autism once found incompetent to proceed can be placed in the same secure forensic settings under chapter 916, eliminating the current requirement that the Agency for Persons with Disabilities maintain separate staffing and space. Simon said consolidation would "reduce duplicative staffing needs and produce a positive fiscal impact for the state while maintaining appropriate protection for the vulnerable population and the public."

Barney Bishop of Florida Smart Justice Alliance waived in support. There was no debate. The committee voted by roll call and reported SB778 favorably to the next stage of consideration.

Supporters said the change preserves necessary secure care while removing parallel administrative requirements. The committee did not take up amendments or a fiscal breakdown on the floor; proponents said further fiscal details would appear in subsequent fiscal committee consideration.