FL H1045

Establishes the Certified Peer Specialist Gateway Pilot Program within the Department of Corrections to provide inmates with training to become certified peer specialists under Florida law and assist with post-release employment.

Permits inmates at participating facilities to apply and requires the Department of Corrections to establish selection criteria including appropriate custody classification, discipline record, expected release date within a specified timeframe, positive behavioral record, and desire to work in behavioral health.

Exempts program completers from standard background screening requirements for peer specialists, but requires them to disclose their incarceration records to prospective employers and obtain signed informed consent from potential clients specifying their program completion and certification status.

Requires the pilot program to assist employers with acquiring Federal Bonding Program bonds and permits offering grant-funded financial assistance to cover initial hiring and retention costs for program graduates.

Expires June 30, 2026, and takes effect July 1, 2023.