1. Overview of HB 1103 and IDD Pilot Program Expansion
Florida’s HB 1103, effective July 1, 2025, significantly expands the state’s IDD Pilot Program (originally launched in 2023) to broader eligibility. Initially limited to two Medicaid regions, the program will now encompass all individuals on the Agency for Persons with Disabilities (APD) pre-enrollment list statewide by October 1, 2025, and further extends to those already enrolled in Medicaid waiver programs by July 1, 2026. Enrollment in the pilot remains voluntary, shifting from prior approaches that could result in automatic enrollment. The bill also designates the Agency for Health Care Administration (AHCA) as the central managing body for the pilot, streamlining administrative functions and reducing delays.

2. Reinforcing Transparency, Support, and Family Advocacy
HB 1103 strengthens transparency by requiring APD to post quarterly reconciliation reports, waitlist data, and pre-enrollment statistics—updated every five days—on its website. This includes data by priority categories and geographic distribution, enabling families and advocates to track service access more clearly. The bill also mandates APD’s participation in transition planning for youth in the child welfare system, ensuring continuity of care. Additionally, it establishes a Statewide Family Care Council, which works with existing local councils to advise APD, review policy, report annually to the Governor and Legislature, and facilitate greater stakeholder engagement.

3. Impacts on ABA Therapy Providers and Families
ABA therapy—commonly delivered under Medicaid waiver programs like iBudget—serves individuals with developmental disabilities including autism. Through the IDD Pilot’s managed-care structure, ABA services may now be integrated into more comprehensive benefit packages. The expansion offers families the option to shift from traditional waiver models to managed care, which could streamline care coordination and potentially improve access to ABA services. AHCA is also required to establish a call center to assist families with enrollment, helping providers navigate transitions. While the law does not specifically target ABA, its broader shifts in service delivery and oversight may ultimately influence how ABA is accessed, coordinated, and funded under Florida’s evolving system of care.