Last reviewed: June 8, 2026. This is a draft news update for human review before publishing.
Short takeaway
Florida passed legislation that could affect early intervention, autism supports, educator training, school readiness, and some student pathway options. Some pieces may take time before families see local changes.
Who this may affect
This may matter for Florida families with young children in or near Early Steps age, families raising children with autism or developmental disabilities, educators, child care staff, and some students planning for adult education or postsecondary options.
What changed
CS/CS/SB 112 creates an Early Steps Extended Option for eligible children and directs the Department of Health to seek federal approval by July 1, 2026. The bill summary also describes new responsibilities for the University of Florida Center for Autism and Neurodevelopment, including training, public awareness, best practices, and a no-cost autism micro-credential for certain educators and child care staff. HB 1105 creates a credentialing program for students with autism or cognitive disabilities and calls for guidance on adult education and postsecondary options for certain students.
What parents can do now
If your child receives Early Steps, ask your service coordinator whether any extended option guidance is expected. If your child is school age, ask the IEP team whether any new autism training, credentialing, transition, or postsecondary guidance may affect local planning.
Why this matters
Families often hear about new laws before local programs are ready. The best next step is to stay curious, ask for written updates, and watch for agency or school district guidance before assuming a new service is available.
Source
Read the source update here: Florida Senate. Additional source: Florida Senate HB 1105 Summary.