Committee moves bill to codify DCF 'Working People with Disabilities' proviso into statute

Representative Tante presented CS for HB 915 to codify what has operated in proviso as the Working People with Disabilities program at the Department of Children and Families (DCF). She said the program allows people with certain developmental disabilities to retain Medicaid eligibility while earning income and described existing proviso parameters, including asset disregards and income limits as stated in the proviso.

Tante recounted her son's experience with employment and concerns about retirement-account interactions with eligibility rules. She described confusion families faced when FRS (Florida Retirement System) communications and agency guidance appeared inconsistent, and said the bill would require DCF to inform families at least annually and designate a staff contact to answer questions.

Several disability-advocacy organizations waved in support during public testimony. Members praised the sponsor's advocacy and the bill was reported favorably by the committee.