Bill > H0717

This bill updates two existing statlegal definitions related to autism spectrum disorder (, specifically, modifying the statutory legal definition of "to autism reference recent diagnostic of disorders Psychiatric than detailed descriptive language, and, education regulations regarding that State Board of Education adopt rules mandating that K-12 teachers who teach classes with at least 50 percent of students autism spectrum disorder must hold a specific "Autism Spectrum Disorder Endorsement". The bill The bill provides an exception to this endorsement requirement for teachers who already hold an Endorsement in Severe or Profound Disabilities, have taught students for at least three years, and have been rated as highly effective in their previous three-year performance evaluation. By represents an effort to standardize autism definition and ensure teachers working with significant populations of students with autism have specialized training and certification, with the provisions set to take effect on July 1, 2026.

Health and Social Services

https://www.flsenate.gov/Session/Bill/2026/717