FL H7129

Revises boarding school definition to require accreditation by specified organizations (Florida Council of Independent Schools, Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, or members of National Council for Private School Accreditation) for both academic and residential programs, with 3-year compliance period for existing and new schools.

Requires boarding schools to follow standard school schedules with holiday breaks and summer recesses, prohibits year-round residence except for foreign students, and mandates parents retain custody and financial responsibility.

Mandates level 2 background screening for boarding school employees and contracted personnel with direct student contact, with department authority to grant exemptions from disqualification.

Requires Department of Education to remove unaccredited boarding schools from registration if they fail to complete accreditation requirements or provide verification letters within 270 days of registration; allows department to impose administrative sanctions or civil remedies for unlicensed residential group care.

Appropriates $3,000,000 in recurring general revenue to Department of Health for rural primary care residency program at Sacred Heart Hospital, plus $250,000 nonrecurring for A Safe Haven for Newborns and $200,000 nonrecurring for St. John Bosco Clinic.