Committee recommends confirmation of Robert Astellos as director of the Agency for Persons with Disabilities

Robert Astellos was sworn in for his confirmation hearing and described his background in military service, long‑term care advocacy, and recent work as deputy director at the Florida Department of Veterans Affairs. He outlined four priorities for the Agency for Persons with Disabilities (APD): reduce the pre‑enrollment list, improve transparency and family involvement (including a more family‑friendly website and contact information), strengthen partnerships with providers and stakeholders, and streamline application and data processes.

Astellos said the agency had reduced the pre‑enrollment list from about 21,000 to about 16,800 through outreach and targeted offers of services, and discussed plans for continued clean‑up of the list. Multiple advocacy and provider organizations waived support on the record. Senators praised his customer‑service emphasis and moved to recommend confirmation; the committee recommended his confirmation by voice vote.

Next steps: Recommendation to confirm will proceed per appointment procedures.