FL S0226

Creates section 287.0576, Florida Statutes, to regulate outsourced human services contracts in mental health, substance abuse, child welfare, and juvenile justice.

Allows national accreditation from Joint Commission on Accreditation of Healthcare Organizations, Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities, and Council on Accreditation to substitute for agency licensure and monitoring requirements, with exceptions for reimbursement, complaints, and federal/state law compliance.

Requires a single lead agency to develop common monitoring protocols, coordinate monitoring activities, adopt rules, establish a master list of core documents, and create common forms by October 1, 2011.

Mandates human services contracts include annual cost-of-living adjustments reflecting consumer price index increases or allow contractors to reduce services, require payment on undisputed items, and allow unexpended funds to carry forward to the next year.

Requires agencies to analyze new governmental mandates and provide cost estimates to contractors before implementation, and allows contractors to seek remedies through chapter 120 if agencies fail to negotiate contract amendments for material changes with financial impact.