Committee advances bill to fund genetic counseling education in Florida

Representative Anderson, sponsor of CS/4 HB 1115, told the Education and Employment Committee that Florida has just 179 licensed genetic counselors and that many work in research rather than clinical settings. She said the bill establishes an education grant program to expand training and ensure universities produce clinicians for specialties including oncology, pediatrics and cardiology.

The bill’s sponsor said genetic counselors ‘‘interpret genetic testing results, help families and physicians understand and navigate complex genetic conditions, and coordinate care between specialists.’’ The committee recorded no public testimony and Representative Harris expressed support during debate, praising the sponsor’s work on related legislation.

After brief debate, the committee called the roll. The clerk reported 16 yeas and 0 nays; Chair Sarah Kennedy announced CS/4 HB 1115 was reported favorably to the next stage.

The committee did not identify funding sources during the hearing; Representative Anderson said only that the program would support students and state universities. The bill’s next procedural step will be committee of reference scheduling and potential fiscal analysis.