FL S0170

Creates the People's Relief Program within the Department of Children and Families to provide grants to Florida residents experiencing economic hardship for everyday expenses including housing, childcare, and health care

Grants become available when specific economic triggers occur: utility costs exceed a percentage of average household income, property insurance premiums exceed a threshold, statewide unemployment rises above a set percentage, widespread economic decline, or a declared state of emergency from natural disaster

Eligibility requires Florida residency for at least 1 year, evidence of changed circumstances hindering ability to meet financial obligations, and documentation of utility, property insurance, childcare, or health care expenses

Department of Children and Families must adopt rules establishing an online application, specific thresholds for economic triggers, grant award and disbursement procedures, and restrictions on fund use

Program funding is subject to legislative appropriation; effective date is July 1, 2026