HB 477 Summary

• Department of Children and Families must approve one or more third-party credentialing entities by July 1, 2022 to certify hotline counselors, supervisors, child welfare personnel, and adult protective services staff.

• All existing hotline counselors, supervisors, and adult protective services personnel must obtain valid third-party certifications by July 1, 2022; newly hired personnel must obtain certification within 6 months of hire.

• Third-party credentialing entities must establish professional standards, develop competency-based exams, maintain ethics codes and disciplinary procedures, provide public databases of certified individuals, require continuing education, and maintain advisory committees.

• Individuals denied, suspended, or revoked certifications may request administrative hearings within 30 days after exhausting credentialing entity or departmental appeals processes under Florida Administrative Code sections 120.569 and 120.57(1).

• Act takes effect upon becoming law.