FL S1012

Establishes the Certified Peer Specialist Gateway Pilot Program within the Department of Corrections to train participating inmates to become certified peer specialists under Florida Statutes s. 397.417.

Provides inmates with training hours, work experience, and examination assistance needed for peer specialist certification while incarcerated and helps place participants in employment upon release.

Requires the Department of Corrections to develop selection criteria for applicants, including custody classification, discipline record, expected release date, behavioral standards, and absence of disqualifying criminal convictions.

Exempts program completers from standard background screening requirements for peer specialists and requires them to disclose incarceration records to prospective employers and obtain signed informed consent forms from clients.

Authorizes the program to assist employers with acquiring federal bonding programs and offering grant-funded hiring incentives; the pilot program expires June 30, 2026.