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Florida directs $2.2 billion to services for individuals with autism, developmental disabilities

Gov. Ron DeSantis announces funding at Jupiter news conference

Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis holds a news conference in Bonita Springs. (Copyright 2024 by WKMG ClickOrlando - All rights reserved.)

JUPITER, Fla. – Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis announced Monday that more than $2.2 billion will go toward Florida services for those who have autism or other developmental disabilities.

The governor was joined by Agency for Persons with Disabilities Director Taylor Hatch for the news conference at The Els Center of Excellence, “a world-class site hosting leading-edge programs and services for individuals with autism,” according to its website.

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The funding will go toward the Agency for Persons with Disabilities through the iBudget waiver, according to the governor’s office, which from the Florida’s Future Budget includes:

  • Nearly $200 million to support an across-the-board increase for iBudget waiver providers.
  • $64.8 million to enroll additional individuals in crisis onto the iBudget waiver.
  • An additional $55.7 million to enroll individuals currently in pre-enrollment categories.
  • Over $40 million in support of community projects for those with autism and other developmental disabilities.
  • This includes $1 million for the Els Center of Excellence recreational complex, which provides a sensory friendly environment that meets the needs of children with autism.

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