House Approves "Unique Abilities" Bills
TALLAHASSEE (CBSMiami/NSF) - The Florida House quickly approved two bills aimed at providing more educational and job opportunities to people with developmental disabilities.
One of the bills, which deals with job opportunities and financial independence for people with disabilities, passed the House unanimously and still needs a final vote Friday in the Senate. But it is virtually guaranteed to pass, as Senate President Andy Gardiner has made the issue one of his top priorities.
The House, meanwhile, gave final approval to a Senate bill, which includes programs that provide educational aid and higher-education opportunities to families whose children have developmental disabilities --- or, as Gardiner calls them, "unique abilities."
The Senate passed the measure Wednesday, meaning it is ready for Scott's signature.
"Just know that what this does is provide more clarity and more options for parents, especially those with the neediest of children in the state of Florida," House sponsor Erik Fresen said before the House voted 109-1 to approve the education bill.
House members approved the bills with little discussion, as Gardiner and House Speaker Steve Crisafulli had reached agreement earlier on the measures.
Scott's office said he plans to sign the bills during a ceremony next Thursday.
The News Service of Florida contributed to this report.
