FL S0272

Requires the Department of Children and Families to approve third-party credentialing entities by July 1, 2022, to certify hotline counselors, supervisors, child welfare workers, and adult protective services personnel.

Mandates that all existing hotline counselors, supervisors, child welfare workers, and adult protective services staff hold valid certifications from approved third-party entities by July 1, 2022, with newly hired personnel required to obtain certification within 6 months of employment.

Establishes that third-party credentialing entities must meet specific requirements including professional standards, core competencies, ethics codes, disciplinary processes, public databases, continuing education requirements, and advisory committees with regional representation.

Provides administrative appeal and hearing procedures under Florida law (ss. 120.569 and 120.57(1)) for individuals who receive adverse certification decisions from credentialing entities, with appeals to be filed within 30 days of completing the credentialing entity's or department's appeals process.

Amends legislative intent in the Adult Protective Services Act to establish that protective services programs be staffed by persons holding professional certifications from department-approved third-party credentialing entities.