Bill > S0400

This bill modifies the responsibilities and funding rules for behavioral health managing entities (organizations that coordinate mental health and substance abuse services) in Florida. The bill requires the Department of Children and Families to routinely monitor how managing entities use their funds and take corrective action if there is underutilization. It mandates a comprehensive review of these entities every two years, which must include a financial utilization analysis, and requires the review to be submitted to state leadership. The bill also places stricter controls on fund carryforward, limiting managing entities to carrying forward no more than 8% of their annual contract amount to the next fiscal year. Additionally, managing entities are now explicitly required to maximize the use of current year funds within their network and cannot reserve funds for future planning without the department's advance approval. Any unexpended funds beyond the 8% threshold must be returned to the department, and funds carried forward cannot be used to increase future recurring obligations or fund unauthorized programs. The changes aim to improve financial accountability and ensure more efficient use of state resources for behavioral health services, with the provisions set to take effect on July 1, 2026.

https://www.flsenate.gov/Session/Bill/2026/400