Specialized summer programs for children with autism and related disorders.

(1) PURPOSE AND INTENT.—

(a) The Legislature finds that many children with autism spectrum disorder face challenges during the summer months due to limited access to extended school year programs, summer school, and traditional summer camps that can accommodate their needs.

(b) The purpose of this section is to support specialized summer programs that provide structured, supportive environments for these children, ensuring continuity of care, skill development, and social engagement.

(2) ADMINISTRATION AND GRANTS.—

(a) The University of Florida Center for Autism and Neurodevelopment shall administer a grant program to fund specialized summer programs for children with autism spectrum disorder who have significant emotional or behavior disorders or cognitive disabilities.

(b) Grants may be awarded annually to eligible entities, subject to available appropriations.

(c) The center shall develop and publish guidelines for grant applications, including criteria for program eligibility, use of funds, and reporting requirements.

(d) The center shall provide technical assistance to grant applicants and recipients.

(3) PROGRAM ELIGIBILITY AND STANDARDS.—The guidelines developed by the center must, at a minimum, require programs to:

(a) Serve children diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder for whom placement in a summer camp that is not equipped to serve such children is inappropriate.

(b) Provide a structured schedule of activities that may include, but are not limited to:

1. Behavioral and social skill development.

2. Recreational and leisure activities tailored to individual needs.

3. Therapy-based support, including speech, occupational, or behavioral therapies, when appropriate.

4. Family support and training workshops.

(c) Employ staff with relevant experience or training in working with children with autism and severe emotional, behavioral, or cognitive disorders.

(d) Maintain a safe and inclusive environment, with appropriate staff-to-participant ratios.

(e) Operate in compliance with all applicable state and federal laws, including health and safety regulations.

(f) Provide a full-day program for at least 4 weeks.

(g) Leverage other available federal or state funding sources, including Medicaid waivers, Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) and other federal funding, or private contributions, to supplement state grants.

(4) FUNDING.—

(a) Grants are subject to legislative appropriation.

(b) Grants may be used for any of the following purposes:

1. Facility costs.

2. Staff salaries and training.

3. Curriculum or other instructional or activity costs.

4. Property and liability insurance.

5. Equipment purchase or rental.

6. Transportation for camp participants.

(c) The center shall prioritize awarding grants to programs that:

1. Serve underserved or rural areas where specialized summer programs are unavailable.

2. Provide comprehensive support services, including family involvement and community integration.

(d) The center may set maximum grant amounts and require matching funds contributions from grant recipients, dependent upon available funds and projected participation.

(e) In addition to criteria determined by the center, grant amounts may vary based on the services provided and the duration of the program.

(5) REPORTING AND OVERSIGHT.—Grant recipients must submit a report to the Center for Autism and Neurodevelopment within 45 days after the conclusion of the summer program detailing:

(a) Program enrollment and participation.

(b) Use of grant funds.

(c) Outcomes related to participant engagement, skill-building, and family satisfaction.