FL S0482

Creates section 381.989, F.S., establishing a voluntary community health worker certification program administered by department-approved third-party credentialing entities.

Defines "community health worker" as a frontline health care worker who serves as a liaison between health services and medically underserved communities, provides health education and advocacy, and coordinates care.

Requires third-party credentialing entities to establish professional standards, develop core competency exams, maintain ethics codes and public databases, require continuing education, and establish a community health worker advisory committee with at least 8 and no more than 15 members.

Mandates grandfathering provisions allowing existing community health workers to obtain certification within 15 months of program implementation for a maximum fee of $50.

Takes effect upon becoming law.