Staff Writer
In a significant move aimed at enhancing support for children with autism and other developmental disabilities, Florida Governor Ron DeSantis has signed Senate Bill 112 into law. The legislation, introduced by Senator Gayle Harrell (R-Stuart), provides expanded services, funding, and educational opportunities for children with developmental challenges across the state.
“This bill is a game changer for our state, and I’m so pleased to see the Governor sign it into law
today. Research is clear. Early detection and intervention services promote positive outcomes for
infants, toddlers, and children with a disability or developmental delay. This bill allows parents to continue critical early intervention services provided through the Early Steps
Program until their child turns four and begins receiving services at school. Additionally, by
developing summer programs designed specifically for children with Autism, we can help
parents find summer camps and other activities that can accommodate the specific needs of a
child with autism, ensuring year-round continuity of care,” Senator Harrell said in a press release.
Key Changes Under Senate Bill 112
The newly enacted legislation introduces a comprehensive approach to early intervention, education, and support services for children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and other developmental delays. Among the most notable changes is the expansion of the Early Steps program, Florida’s early intervention initiative designed for infants and toddlers with developmental delays.
Under the previous framework, children could only participate in Early Steps until their third birthday. Senate Bill 112 extends this eligibility through age four, pending federal approval. This allows families the option to continue accessing essential therapies and developmental services during a critical period of growth.
The bill also incorporates an educational component into Early Steps, aimed at preparing children for school. New services will include instruction in pre-literacy, language, numeracy, and behavioral skills, reinforcing school readiness alongside therapeutic care.
Expansion of Summer and Charter Programs for Children with Autism
Recognizing the unique challenges children with autism face during the summer months, the legislation establishes a new grant program to fund specialized summer programs. These programs will offer structured environments that support behavioral and social skill development, recreational activities, and therapy-based services such as speech, occupational, or behavioral therapies. They will also include family support and training workshops to enhance caregiver involvement.
The law further addresses long-term educational needs by creating a grant initiative to support the development of charter schools exclusively serving students with autism. These schools will offer highly specialized learning environments tailored to meet the complex needs of this population.
Designation of UF Center for Autism and Neurodevelopment as Statewide Hub
Senate Bill 112 designates the University of Florida Center for Autism and Neurodevelopment as the statewide hub for autism-related services, research, and best practices. The center will oversee grant funding for summer programs and charter schools, as well as coordinate statewide initiatives in autism research and professional development.
The UF center will also introduce a micro-credentialing program for instructional personnel across Florida. This professional development pathway will equip educators with the skills to support students with autism in the classroom. Topics will include identifying autism-related behaviors, integrating assistive technologies, and using evidence-based teaching practices. The program will be offered at no cost and will be available both in person and online.
Workforce Development and Training Initiatives
Beyond education, the new law mandates the development of strategies to expand Florida’s autism services workforce. The UF center will be responsible for curating a catalog of professional learning opportunities aimed at healthcare professionals, child welfare workers, and educators. These resources are designed to strengthen statewide capacity in delivering effective autism-related services in both public and private settings.
A Coordinated Statewide Approach
With the passage of Senate Bill 112, Florida is taking a more coordinated and robust approach to supporting children with developmental disabilities and their families. By enhancing early intervention programs, expanding summer and school-year educational options, and designating a statewide center for research and professional training, the legislation aims to improve outcomes and access to services for one of the state’s most vulnerable populations.
For families, educators, and healthcare providers, these changes represent a significant investment in early detection, intervention, and lifelong support for children with autism and related conditions.
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