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By
FPI Staff
|
October 15, 2024

Hurricane Milton Response: Safety Net Policy Tracker

This post will be continually updated as more resources become available. Click here for the Hurricane Helene policy tracker.

On October 9, 2024, Hurricane Milton made landfall on Florida’s west coast  as a Category 3 hurricane, less than two weeks after  Helene hit the Big Bend as a Category 4. The road to recovery will be long and arduous, and many Floridians will be dealing with the aftermath long after Milton leaves the news cycle.

As federal, state, and local governments respond to this disaster, it is critical that public resources are utilized to ensure an equitable recovery — one that rebuilds what was lost and damaged, and one that also strengthens Florida’s communities and the environment to withstand future disasters. 

Below are resources that have been mobilized by government agencies to provide relief to Floridians impacted by Hurricane Milton. As the damage is assessed and recovery efforts are implemented, agencies will respond by making changes to policies and programs, often on a daily or even hourly basis. FPI will continue to update this page to reflect up-to-date information.

At the request of Gov. Ron DeSantis, President Joe Biden has declared a major disaster for Individual Assistance purposes to impacted individuals in:

  • Brevard (County)
  • Charlotte (County)
  • Citrus (County)
  • Clay (County)
  • Collier (County)
  • DeSoto (County)
  • Duval (County)
  • Flagler (County)
  • Glades (County)
  • Hardee (County)
  • Hendry (County)
  • Hernando (County)
  • Highlands (County)
  • Hillsborough (County)
  • Indian River (County)
  • Lake (County)
  • Lee (County)
  • Manatee (County)
  • Marion (County)
  • Martin (County)
  • Miccosukee Tribe of Indians of Florida
  • Okeechobee (County)
  • Orange (County)
  • Osceola (County)
  • Palm Beach (County)
  • Pasco (County)
  • Pinellas (County)
  • Polk (County)
  • Putnam (County)
  • Sarasota (County)
  • Seminole (County)
  • St. Johns (County)
  • St. Lucie (County)
  • Sumter (County)
  • Volusia (County)

Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA)

FEMA, part of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, is the primary federal agency to provide assistance before, during, and after disasters. Florida is located within FEMA’s Region 4 office, headquartered in Atlanta, Georgia. Governors make requests for major disaster or emergency declarations through the regional FEMA office. Once a declaration is made, the state and residents can access an array of assistance and services. FEMA disaster assistance is provided under three broad categories:

  • individuals and households (for housing, business recovery, unemployment assistance, and other needs)
  • public entities (including certain nonprofit organizations, for repair and rebuilding public facilities and infrastructure)
  • hazard mitigation (to gird against future disasters and potential losses) 

This tracker will focus on individuals and households.

Note on eligibility: For most assistance from FEMA (e.g., cash assistance, including Disaster Unemployment Assistance), applicants must be a U.S. Citizen, Non-Citizen National, or a Qualified Alien to qualify. Anyone can apply for and receive FEMA-funded Crisis Counseling, Disaster Legal Services, and short-term, non-cash, emergency aid regardless of their immigration status if otherwise eligible.

Ineligible immigrants can apply for FEMA assistance on behalf of their U.S. citizen child or another adult household member.

To apply for FEMA assistance, individuals can visit disasterassistance.gov, use the FEMA mobile app, or call 1-800-621-3362 or 1-800-462-7585 (TTY). Applications can also be made in person at Disaster Recovery Centers (DRCs).  

Disaster Recovery Centers (DRCs)

DRCs are mobile or brick-and-mortar locations within affected communities where Milton survivors can apply for FEMA assistance or check on existing FEMA applications. In addition, DRCs are often staffed with other agencies and nonprofit organizations who can provide other kinds of assistance with disaster recovery. A list of DRC locations will be posted here.

Housing Assistance

Find an open homeless shelter near you by texting SHELTER and your zip code to 4FEMA (43362). (Envíe un mensaje de texto con la palabra REFUGIO y su código postal a 4FEMA [43362].) Additionally, the Red Cross and Salvation Army databases can be searched for open shelters in your area. Additionally, Florida has an Open Shelter Tracker with multiple types of shelters listed in different tabs.

Homeowners and renters affected by Hurricane Milton in the designated counties eligible for financial and direct services may apply for FEMA disaster assistance at www.disasterassistance.gov, by calling 800-621-FEMA (3362), or by using the FEMA App. 

FEMA disaster assistance may include financial help with temporary lodging and home repairs, as well as other disaster-related expenses for damage and losses not covered by homeowners, renters, or flood insurance. This includes: temporary housing, damage repair not covered by insurance, funds to replace damaged homes, and grants for the construction of a new home (in very limited circumstances). The following information will be required when applying: 

  • a current phone number where you can be contacted
  • your address at the time of the disaster and the address where you are now staying
  • a Social Security number (can be yours, another adult in the household’s, or a minor child’s)
  • a general list of damage and losses
  • proof of your household’s total income, before taxes, at the time of the disaster
  • banking information if you choose direct deposit
  • if insured, the policy number or the agent and/or the company name

If you have homeowners, renters, or flood insurance, you should file a claim immediately. FEMA cannot duplicate benefits for losses already covered by insurance. If your policy does not cover all your disaster expenses, you may be eligible for federal assistance. Take photos to document damage and begin cleanup and repairs to prevent further damage. Remember to keep receipts from all purchases related to the cleanup and repair. If you are initially turned down, it is advisable to appeal the decision, as many initial claim rejections can be turned into acceptable claims with a few tweaks. To ensure that a FEMA representative inspects your home, you should call and check back periodically.

Information on filing a flood claim through the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) can be found here. You must have a policy through the NFIP to file a claim.

For future reference about climate hazard risks and preparation options in your location, Hazard Aware is a free service that provides in-depth analyses and practical advice.

Other FEMA Assistance

FEMA also provides financial help for necessary non-housing needs that are directly related to the disaster in the following areas:

  • personal property such as clothing; household items; tools, clothing, and equipment required for employment; computers, books, supplies, etc., required for school
  • transportation, including repair or replacement of vehicles, and public transportation costs
  • funeral expenses 
  • moving and storage expenses 
  • some medical and dental expenses
  • child care
  • clean up items

Disaster Legal Services Advice Hotline

The Disaster Legal Services Advice Hotline is a FEMA-funded free legal aid hotline for disaster-related problems for survivors in affected counties who cannot afford an attorney. The number to call in Florida is 833-514-2940. Callers may be instructed to say that they are seeking storm-related legal assistance, indicate the county in which they are located, and state their legal problem(s). Among the many legal issues that callers may be able to get help with are FEMA benefits, home repairs contracts, insurance claims, wills, scams, landlord/tenant problems, and access to disaster assistance.

Florida Housing Finance Corporation 

The Florida Housing Finance Corporation has updated its Disaster Relief webpage to provide families with information on housing resources and assistance. This webpage will continue to be updated as more information becomes available.

  • Florida Housing has ensured that all listings are up to date in the event that your family has been displaced and you need to quickly relocate. To find an affordable rental property, click here. If you do not have internet access, you may also call the following toll-free number for assistance in conducting a search: 1-877-428-8844.
  • If your home sustained damage as a result of the storm, your local State Housing Initiatives Partnership (SHIP) office may have recovery assistance available to help with temporary relocation, rental assistance, debris removal and/or home repairs. Please contact your local office directly for more information. You can find your local office by clicking here. 

Florida Department of Commerce (DOC) 

DOC is the lead state agency focused on economic development. DOC administers the state’s Unemployment Insurance program, among other programs aimed at business development, community development and planning, and workforce development and statistics.

Disaster Unemployment Assistance (DUA)

Disaster Unemployment Assistance (DUA) provides unemployment assistance to people in FEMA disaster-declared counties whose employment or self-employment has been impacted as a direct result of a hurricane if they are not eligible for regular Unemployment Insurance (UI).The Florida Department of Commerce will announce the roll out of DUA on its website here.

‍Reemployment Assistance

In most disasters, DOC waives Reemployment Assistance work search reporting, wait week, and Employ Florida registration requirements in FEMA disaster-declared counties. Check DOC’s website for announcements here.

Florida Department of Children and Families (DCF)

DCF provides a range of social services to children, adults, and families in Florida in disaster situations. This includes programs to support household and family self-sufficiency through economic, medical and food support.

‍Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP)

SNAP is the most important safety net protecting Floridians from food insecurity. SNAP provides grocery assistance to households with low income who are struggling to put food on the table. In a hurricane, SNAP plays a pivotal role in making sure that disaster survivors can access food.

Disaster Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (D-SNAP) 

D-SNAP provides food assistance to households with significant disaster-related expenses who are not eligible for regular SNAP. D-SNAP does not look at citizenship status, impose a work requirement, or preclude college students from participating.  DCF will likely make an announcement about D-SNAP for Hurricane Milton in the coming days.

Supplemental SNAP

Supplemental SNAP is extra SNAP for people who were receiving benefits when the disaster happened that were not at maximum amount for their household size. In those cases, DCF may issue supplemental benefits to bring SNAP allotments for affected households in the disaster area up to the maximum allotment for a household of their size. If DCF activates Supplemental SNAP, expect an announcement in the coming days. 

‍Replacement SNAP

Replacement SNAP allows households already participating in SNAP to get food replaced that has been destroyed in a disaster. As of now, for Hurricane Milton-, DCF is asking that SNAP participants who lost food to apply for food replacement by October 19, 2024, using this form. 

Unless an affected participant lives in one of the following counties, DCF will ask for verification of power outage of at least four hours:

  • Charlotte
  • Citrus
  • Collier
  • Desoto
  • Flagler
  • Hardee
  • Hernando
  • Highlands
  • Hillsborough
  • Lake
  • Lee
  • Manatee
  • Pasco
  • Pinellas
  • Polk
  • Putnam
  • Sarasota
  • Volusia

People living in the following counties will be required to complete DCF’s online replacement form and upload supporting verification: 

  • Brevard
  • Clay
  • Duval
  • Glades
  • Hendry
  • Indian River
  • Marion
  • Martin
  • Okeechobee
  • Orange
  • Seminole
  • St. Johns
  • St. Lucie
  • Sumter

People who have problems obtaining verification should ask DCF for assistance in proving the power outage in their neighborhood.Normally, replacement issuances  will be made for the amount of the loss, up to the total amount of the benefit issued for the month.

Hot Foods

DCF has obtained permission from the United States Department of Agriculture’s Food and Nutrition Services to allow households in the following counties to purchase hot and prepared food, such as hot deli food, food from the salad bar, sandwiches, and fountain drinks, with their SNAP assistance:

  • Highlands
  • Hillsborough
  • Indian River
  • Manatee
  • Pasco
  • Pinellas
  • Sarasota
  • Volusia 

As of now, this flexibility will only be allowed until November 15, 2024 However, DCF suggests that participants check with individual retailers before making hot/prepared food purchases.

Family Resource Centers

DCF operates Family Resource Support Centers with staff on site, including Hope Navigators, behavioral health partners who specialize in disaster recovery response, and public benefit eligibility specialists to help individuals and families. Click here for location information in the coming days and weeks. In addition, Florida’s HOPE LINE, which is available to assist those in need of resources or other assistance after the storm, is now available 24/7 for at least the next two-plus weeks at 833-GET-HOPE.

U.S. Food and Nutrition Service (FNS)

FNS has granted the Florida Department of Health’s request to allow operators in the Child and Adult Care Food Program (CACFP) to provide meals in a non-congregate setting and adjust meal service times, among other flexibilities through November 8, 2024 FNS has also granted the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services’ request to permit operators of the National School Lunch Program (NSLP), School Breakfast Program (SBP), Special Milk Program (SMP), Fresh Fruit and Vegetable Program (FFVP),Summer Food Service Program (SFSP), and Seamless Summer Option (SSO) to, among other flexibilities, serve meals in a non-congregate setting through November 8, 2024.

U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA)

The SBA provides capital and business development assistance to help grow and build small businesses. In response to disasters, the SBA provides low-interest loans to homeowners and business owners to pay for damages that are not covered by insurance. The SBA provides three types of disaster loans: 1) home disaster loans to repair or replace homes; 2) business physical disaster loans, to repair or replace business property; and 3) economic injury disaster loans, to provide assistance to small businesses and agricultural cooperatives to meet their expenses during the disaster period and until they resume normal business. 

Click here for information on applying for an SBA loan.

Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS)

CMS is part of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS). CMS administers the Medicare program and works in partnership with state governments to administer Medicaid and the Children’s Health Insurance program (CHIP).

State of Florida Waivers

Department of Health and Human Services Secretary Xavier Becerra used his authority in the Public Health Service Act to declare a Non-Covid Public Health Emergency (PHE), effective September 23, 2024 until December 21, 2024, giving CMS the flexibility to support beneficiaries in Florida. These flexibilities are applied through waivers that the state or individual care providers can adopt.

  • Florida’s 1812f Waiver – Allows Medicare to pay for care in a skilled nursing facility (SNF) without the requirement of a three consecutive day stay or the requirement of at least 60 consecutive days in a non-institutional or custodial level of care. This is useful for individuals who are evacuated, transferred, or potentially face other disruptions from the hurricane.‍
  • Florida’s 1135 Waiver -  Waives a wide range of requirements under section 1135(b) of the Social Security Act that would otherwise complicate care during a disaster. This waiver allows for the following flexibilities, effective September 2, 2023:
    -Less strict conditions for participation, certification requirements, and program participation for individual providers to provide care
    -Allows physicians from other states to provide services in Florida if they have an equivalent license from another state
    -Allows the relocation of patients to receive medical screening, and relocation of patients who have not been stabilized if the transfer is necessary because of Hurricane Milton
    -Allows flexibilities for physician referrals
    -Allows certain flexibilities for HIPAA and privacy regulations
    -Allows flexibilities to modify deadlines and timetables to ensure that services are available to those who need them
    -Health care providers who need additional flexibilities specific to the effects resulting from Hurricane Milton can submit a request to CMS here.
  • ‍Blanket Waivers - Do not require forms to be submitted, these are applied automatically by CMS surveyors. They include but are not limited to the following for different types of service providers (full details can be seen at the link for blanket waivers):
    -Expanded telehealth services
    -Offsite hospital screening for patients in need of mental or physical care
    -Flexibilities for Medical staff requirements in terms of credentialing within the state
    -Allowing longer times to submit medical records to care for patients during the emergency
    -Allows longer stays for certain individuals in need of care for those on Medicare
    -Flexibilities in physical environment requirements for providing care
    -Flexibilities in data reporting requirements

Medical Equipment and Supplies Replacements 

CMS will temporarily waive certain requirements to enable people with Medicare who have lost or sustained damage to their durable medical equipment, prosthetics, orthotics, and supplies as a result of the hurricane to receive replacements of such items and services. This will help to ensure beneficiaries can continue to access the needed medical equipment and supplies they rely on each day. Medicare beneficiaries can contact 1-800-MEDICARE (1-800-633-4227) for assistance.

Dialysis Care

CMS is helping people obtain and maintain access to critical life-saving services by activating the Kidney Community Emergency Response (KCER) program and working with End-Stage Renal Disease (ESRD) Network 7, which is responsible under a contract with CMS for assessing the status of dialysis facilities in potentially impacted areas of the State of Florida. The ESRD Network 7 (Florida) toll-free hotline is 800-826-3773. Additional information is available here on the KCER website. Floridians in need of immediate assistance can call the KCER hotline at 866-901-3773. 

Special Enrollment Periods for Hurricane Victims

Open enrollment in Florida begins on November 1, 2024. If a qualified individual is unable to enroll in a Qualified Health Insurance Plan due to Hurricane Milton during the 60-day enrollment period, the individual and their dependents will be eligible for an Exceptional Circumstances Special Enrollment Period that allows them to enroll in health care coverage after the deadline of December 15, 2024. To request an Exceptional Circumstances SEP, FEMA-emergency affected individuals must contact the Marketplace Call Center at 1-800-318-2596 or TTY at 1- 855-889-4325 and indicate they were eligible for another enrollment window but were unable to complete their enrollment due to a FEMA-designated emergency or disaster.

Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) 

SAMHSA is the agency within the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services that leads public health efforts to advance the behavioral health of the nation. 

SAMHSA Disaster Preparedness and Recovery

The Disaster Distress Helpline is a national hotline dedicated to providing year-round immediate crisis counseling for people who are experiencing emotional distress related to any natural or human-caused disaster. This toll-free, multilingual, and confidential crisis support service is available to all residents in the United States and its territories. Call 1-800-985-5990 or text TalkWithUs to 66746 to connect with a trained crisis counselor. 

Local and Tribal Governmental Resources

  • Brevard County - Visit the county’s storm page to get the latest information on preparing for and recovering from disasters, get text alerts as well as important local, state and federal resources. This page will also connect you to the Brevard County Emergency Management page. Follow the Emergency Operations Center on Facebook, X (formerly Twitter) and Nextdoor to get updates. Brevard County Schools are open.
  • Charlotte County - For information on Charlotte County’s emergency management operations visit their website, Facebook, X (formerly Twitter) or Instagram. To get text alerts on local recovery efforts and more, sign up for CharCoCares (Charlotte County Cares). Schools have reopened as of 10/15/2024.
  • Duval County - For information on planning for and recovering from a disaster or emergency and more, be JaxReady. Get notifications sent to your phone for up to date information by downloading this ap.Interact on Facebook and X (formerly Twitter). Duval Schools are open.
  • ‍‍‍Hernando County -  Sign up for Alert Hernando to get updates and find information on shelters, making disaster plans, registering for special needs shelters, and hurricane debris removal by visiting the county’s Emergency Management website. Get updates on the county’s social media Facebook and X (formerly Twitter).‍  Schools have reopened.
  • Hillsborough County - Visit the county’s storm recovery page to get assistance after the hurricane. The county’s emergency management website for information before, during and after the storm. Sign up to get voice, text or email updates on many topics including storm and flood alerts.  Connect with the county on social media including Facebook, Instagram and X (formerly Twitter).  Schools are expected to reopen 10/17/2024.
  • Lee County - Visit the county’s website for information on recovering from the hurricane and visit the Department of Public Safety’s page for info on preparing for storms and signing up for text alerts. Schools have reopened with the exception of Fort Myers Beach Elementary and the Sanibel School.
  • Manatee County - Visit the county’s emergency management page to get information on planning for and recovering from a disaster.  Sign up for emergency notifications Alert Manatee system to get alerts by phone, text or email. Follow the county’s social media on Facebook or X (formerly Twitter). Manatee County’s schools have reopened.
  • Miccosukee Tribe of Indians of Florida - the Miccosukee Tribe has an MOU with Miami-Dade County. (For hurricane resources - visit the county’s emergency management page to find out about, prepare for, and recover from a disaster and to connect to specific information on Hurricane Milton and how to get Miami-Dade emergency notifications.) The Miccosukee Indian School is open.
  • Polk County - Get information on preparing for and recovering from Hurricane Milton on the county’s storm page. Polk County residents can also call (863) 298-7500 for information related to Hurricane Milton or call toll free (866) 661-0228. Follow the county’s social media on Facebook, Instagram and X (formerly Twitter).  Polk County Schools are expected to reopen on 10/16/2024.
  • Putnam County - Visit the county’s storm page to get information on Hurricane Milton including disaster resources and shelter information. Sign up for PutnamAlert to get emergency notifications and other important information from the county by phone, text or email. Follow the county’s emergency management department on Facebook and follow the county on Facebook, Instagram and X (formerly Twitter). Putnam schools are open.
  • St. Johns County - Visit the county’s tropical activity page to get storm related news and links to the county’s emergency management page. This page provides information on preparing for and recovering from disasters.  Sign up for AlertSt.Johns to get emergency notifications on the storm and other important county information.  Follow the county’s social media on Facebook, Instagram, Nextdoor and X (formerly Twitter).  St. Johns County Schools have reopened.

‍

Re-employment Assistance (RA)

American Rescue Plan Act Changes. The American Rescue Plan Act of 2021 extended PEUC and PUA benefits through the week ending September 6, 2021. It also increased the maximum duration of PEUC benefits ($300 a week) to 53 weeks and the maximum duration of PUA to 79 weeks. Although PEUC and PUA did not end until September 6, 2021, Florida withdrew from the Federal Pandemic Unemployment Compensation Program (FPUC) effective June 26, 2021. FPUC provided persons who were out of work due to COVID-19 with an additional $300 a week in unemployment insurance.

Reemployment Assistance weeks reverted to 12 effective January 1, 2022. DEO determines the maximum number of weeks available to RA claimants based on a statutory formula that looks at the average unemployment rate for the most recent third calendar year quarter (i.e., July, August, and September). Based on the downturn in unemployment, the maximum number of weeks for RA reverted to 12 effective January 1, 2022.

RA work-search and work registration requirements reinstated on May 30, 2021. Persons filing an application for RA benefits beginning March 15, 2020, are not required to complete work registration in Employ Florida through May 29, 2021. In addition, work search requirements for individuals requesting benefits for the weeks beginning March 15, 2020, were also reinstated on May 30, 2021.

RA biweekly reporting requirements reinstated. Although previously waived, biweekly reporting was reinstated effective May 10, 2020. DEO’s guide to claiming weeks is here.

Mobile app deployed. DEO has deployed a mobile app for RA applications.

‍DEO announces extended benefits. DEO announced implementation of Extended Benefits (EB).

Resources and guidance. For a list of resources and guidance from the United States Department of Labor on unemployment insurance and COVID-19, go here.

For DEO’s “Reemployment Assistance Frequently Asked Questions and Additional Resources,” updated 12/30/2020, go here.

For DEO’s latest claims data, go here.

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Department of Children and Families (DCF) Multi-Program Policies

DCF opens offices. DCF has reopened its brick-and-mortar storefronts, which were previously closed  due to coronavirus.

DCF adds call center numbers. DCF has added a call center number for Monday through Friday, from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. Call center numbers now include 850-300-4323, 866-762-2237, or TTY 1-800-955-8771.

Certification periods extended by 6 months only through August 2020. Certification periods for cash, food and medical assistance were extended by 6 months for individuals and families scheduled to recertify in April through August  2020. FNS’ approval of the SNAP extension for August is here.  However, effective September 1, 2020, SNAP, TANF and Medicaid recertifications have been reinstated, although DCF says that no one will lose Medicaid due to recertification.

‍DCF allows phone interviews. Phone interviews are now being used for TANF cash and SNAP food assistance.

Mandatory work requirements suspended only through May 2021. Under a directive from Governor DeSantis to waive work requirements for safety net programs, DCF  waived work requirements for individuals participating in the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) and Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) through May 2021. To do this, DCF explains that it partnered with the Department of Economic Opportunity to apply “good cause” statewide for TANF and SNAP recipients who would otherwise be subject to participation in mandatory work requirements as a condition of receiving those benefits. Through May 2021, persons who were sanctioned in the past due to work requirements will be able to reapply and participate in SNAP or TANF again.
‍

Work requirements were reinstated effective June 1, 2021.

Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP)

Emergency allotments (EA) ended. DCF automatically supplemented SNAP allotments of current recipients up to the maximum for a household’s size for July 2021. However, EA was discontinued beginning August 1, 2021.

The SNAP benefits increase by 15 percent ended in October 2021. Floridians who participate in SNAP to put food on the table will receive a temporary 15 percent supplement to SNAP under COVID relief passed by Congress and extended by the American Rescue Plan Act through September 2021.

FNS permanently increases SNAP through revamp of the Thrifty Food Plan. Effective October 2021, FNS has mandated a permanent increase to SNAP through a revamp of the Thrifty Food Plan. DCF says that the increase amounts to about 6% for Floridians.

Time limits suspended. SNAP time limits are suspended during the COVID-19 public health emergency. No one in Florida should be barred from SNAP due to time limits, even if they exhausted their time limit in the past.

Florida granted waiver to allow families to purchase groceries online. DCF has been granted a federal waiver to permit the State of Florida to launch a pilot project statewide effective April 21, 2020, that allows families to purchase groceries online with their Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) card instead of going into stores.

  • At present, participating retailers are Walmart, Amazon, Aldi, BJ’s Wholesale Club, and Publix. DCF cautions, however, that EBT cards cannot be used for delivery fees.

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Medicaid

No Medicaid terminations from March 2020 through the end of the federal public health emergency. The national public health emergency has existed since January 27, 2020 and has been renewed by the Secretary of the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services in 90-day increments since that time. The most recent renewal is effective January 16, 2022.

On March 31, 2020, AHCA alerted providers and DCF posted on the ACCESS website that:

  • No Medicaid recipient will lose Medicaid eligibility during the COVID-19 public health emergency (unless the individual is no longer a state resident or request voluntary termination); under the newly enacted Families First Coronavirus Response Act, a state is prohibited from ending coverage for recipients enrolled as of March 18th for the duration of the public health emergency if the state opts to obtain an enhanced federal Medicaid match.
  • AHCA is working to notify recipients who may have received a termination notice in the month of March that their benefits will be reinstated.
  • An FAQ released by federal CMS provides some examples of Medicaid eligibility groups  protected under these "no termination" requirements including: former foster care youth aging out when they turn 26; youth aging out of children's eligibility when they turn 19; individuals who become ineligible for SSI; individuals no longer qualifying for Qualified Medicare Benefits (QMB). In a May 5, 2020 update, CMS states that this “no termination” requirement also applies to medically needy individuals determined eligible during the public health emergency even if they do not continue to meet their monthly share of cost in subsequent months. This protection extends through the last day of the month the public health emergency ends.  
  • On October 28, 2020, federal CMS issued a new interim final rule weakening the continuous coverage, “no termination” requirement. In states like Florida that have opted to cover full benefits for lawfully residing children in the first 5 years after entry into the United States, once they turn 18, states are now required to limit their coverage to emergency services.  In addition, states are now permitted to reduce optional benefits such as dental coverage or increase cost-sharing such as requiring nursing home residents to contribute more to their costs of care. But in Florida this type of change would require the Legislature to amend state Medicaid law.  

Redetermination/recertification times are reinstated. As of October 1, 2020 AHCA's website is alerting recipients that the Department of Children and Families is now mailing letters for case reviews to check if a household is still eligible for Medicaid and/or Medically Needy. AHCA is urging people receiving these letters to take steps now to re-apply. But note, Medicaid coverage will not end during the COVID-19 Public Health Emergency. In January 2021 DCF conducted one-year “automated renewals” for people whose sole income is social security and SSI and are enrolled in an SSI-related Medicaid program (e.g., MEDS/AD,  Medically Needy and Medicare Savings Programs). People getting VA income were not included in the automated renewal.

Extended application time. Effective with applications filed in February 2020, the time for submitting documentation required to process an application is extended for 120 days from the date of the application and eligibility will still be effective the first day of the month the application was received. Effective July 1, 2021, this policy has been rescinded. Medicaid applications submitted on or after July 1, 2021 may be denied on the 30th day after application or the day after verification information is due. Applications filed prior to July 1, will be allowed 120 days to provide requested verification to establish Medicaid eligibility.

‍Exclusion of additional unemployment payments in determining eligibility. The $600/week of additional unemployment insurance payments under the CARES Act will not be counted as income in determining Medicaid eligibility. (However, these payments will be counted as income in determining marketplace subsidy calculations.)

Coverage of Medicaid services during the state of emergency

  • Coverage of all medically necessary services to COVID-19 testing and treatment.
  • Waiver of limits on services that must be exceeded to maintain the health and safety of recipients diagnosed with COVID-19 or when necessary to maintain a recipient safely in their home
  • Waiver of prior authorization requirements for hospital, physician, advanced practice registered nursing, physician assistant, home health services and durable medical equipment and supplies. As of June 19, 2020, AHCA reinstated prior authorization requirements for all of these services.
  • Waiver of copayments for all services
  • Waiver of limits on early prescription refills, except for controlled substances
  • Coverage of a 90-day supply of maintenance prescriptions when available at the pharmacy
  • Reimbursement of out-of-state providers providing medically necessary services to Florida Medicaid beneficiaries. As of July 1, 2021, the availability of provider “provisional enrollment” for in-state and out-of-state providers will end.
  • Delay of fair hearings only in those instances when the recipient is continuing to receive services pending the outcome of the hearing

COVID-19 Vaccines for Medicaid Enrollees. In an executive order published March 16, 2021 Governor DeSantis revised the vaccine distribution plan, which applies to the general public including Medicaid enrollees, to lower the age requirement to 40 effective March 29, 2021 and then effective April 5, 2021 all Floridians are eligible to receive any COVID-19 vaccination approved by the Food and Drug Administration.

Medicaid enrollees eligible to receive the vaccine may visit myvaccine.fl.gov to find a location distributing the vaccine and to schedule an appointment.

On March 12, 2021, AHCA published instructions for Medicaid enrollees on how to obtain Medicaid transportation once they have scheduled an appointment for a vaccine. AHCA states: "Florida Medicaid will take you to get the COVID-19 vaccine at no cost. All you need to do is set up a time to get your vaccine. Next, let your Medicaid plan know you need a ride and they will take care of the rest. If you are not enrolled in a plan, call the Medicaid Helpline at 1-877-254-1055 to find out the name and phone number for a transportation service."

The state has also recently launched a new email system to help bring COVID-19 vaccines to homebound seniors. Seniors will be able to sign up to have the vaccine come to them by emailing a request to HomeboundVaccine@em.myflorida.com.

AHCA has posted Medicaid Alerts and FAQs providing more detail on Medicaid service changes in response to COVID-19. They address a wide range of topics including, but not limited to: telemedicine guidance for medical, behavioral health, and early intervention services providers; long-term care provider network flexibilities allowing more types of providers to deliver specified long term care services; and continuity of care for adult day care center enrollees during the time these centers are closed.

AHCA is loosening coverage restrictions for behavioral health services. Effective May 5, 2020, all prior authorization requirements for mental health or substance use disorder treatment are waived and service limitations (frequency and duration) are lifted. For behavioral analysis services, current authorizations will be extended through an "administrative approval process" which does not require providers to reassess beneficiaries currently getting services. Effective July 1, 2021 service limits will be reinstated for behavioral health services and effective July 15, 2021 Medicaid prior authorization requirements will be reinstated for behavioral health services.

Per a May 29, 2020 provider alert, during the state of emergency AHCA will be reimbursing providers for telemedicine well-child visits provided to children older than 24 months through age 20. Providers are directed to actively work to schedule follow-up in-person visits to administer immunizations and other physical components of the exam which cannot be accomplished through telemedicine.  

The public charge rule will not be applied to immigrants’ use of Medicaid benefits for COVID-19 testing and treatment.

Coverage of home and community-based waiver services (HCBS) - In response to the public emergency, Florida obtained approval from the federal government to make changes in HCBS waiver programs, including the Long Term Care and Developmental Disabilities programs. The changes are effective retroactively from January 27, 2020 to January 26, 2021. Details can be found here. They include, but are not limited to:

  • permitting virtual evaluations, assessments and care planning meetings in lieu of face to face meetings and use of electronic signatures;
  • lifting service limits in order to address health and welfare issues of enrollees;
  • adjusting service prior authorization requirements;
  • temporarily expanding the settings where services can be provided;  
  • allowing payments for support services provided to enrollees in hospital or short- term institutional settings; and
  • prohibiting visitors in certain residential settings to minimize the spread of infection.

Note on COVID-19 testing, treatment, and vaccines for the uninsured. Florida has not opted to receive 100 percent federal Medicaid funding for COVID-19 testing of people without health insurance. Under the 2021 American Rescue Plan Act this option has been expanded to cover COVID-19 treatment and vaccines for the uninsured as well. Since the state has not taken up this option Floridians must look to an uneven patchwork of free testing, treatment, and vaccine resources scattered around the state. AHCA advises that uninsured people may receive free testing from their county health department or a federally qualified health center and that “many communities provide testing for free for individuals who do not have insurance. Please [click here] to find a test site in your area. Uninsured individuals should ask before the test whether testing is free of charge." There are no state agency instructions on where uninsured people can receive free treatment. However, more information on possible sources for free treatment is available here.

Residency proof no longer required at some vaccine sites, “paving the way for migrants.” - On April 29, 2021 Surgeon General Rivkees issued a new public health advisory specifying that COVID-19 vaccines are available to “a Florida resident” or someone “who is present in Florida for the purpose of providing goods or services for the benefits of residents and visitors of the State of Florida.” This new policy applies to all state-run and federally supported vaccination sites. It rescinds an advisory issued in January that had restricted vaccinations to people who could show proof of Florida residency

2021 unemployment compensation claimants can access free or reduced cost health insurance through the ACA marketplace. The Affordable Care Act (ACA) Marketplace was re-opened in February 2021 to give people who need health insurance a new “special enrollment" opportunity to get covered. The 2021 American Rescue Plan eliminated or vastly reduced premiums for many people with low or moderate incomes.

Starting July 1, 2021, people who received or have been approved for unemployment compensation for any week beginning in 2021 can access free or reduced cost comprehensive health insurance plans through the ACA marketplace. This benefit is available regardless of someone's current income. To get this benefit, people must enroll in the marketplace no later than August 15, 2021. For help with enrollment, contact Covering Florida at 877-813-9115.

Child Nutrition Programs

School children in distance learning still eligible for free or reduced cost meals. Students in distance learning for  2020-21 can still receive school meals through the National School Lunch Program if they are eligible. The student or parent/guardian may pick up meals at the school but should contact their school for more information.

For a list of current child nutrition program waivers for Florida from USDA, go here.

Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC)

Congress allows increased fruit and vegetable benefits. At present, WIC provides $9 for children and $11 for women monthly for fruits and vegetables. The American Rescue Plan Act makes funding available for a four-month increase in the benefit of up to $35 monthly, if a state chooses to do so.

DOH attains waiver allowing remote issuance: Department of Health (DOH) obtained a waiver of the requirement that participants pick up their EBT cards in person at recertification or during nutritional education appointments.

‍WIC participants allowed to substitute certain food. Under a waiver from USDA, WIC participants in Florida are allowed to substitute milk of any available fat content and whole wheat or whole grain bread in package sizes up to 24 oz. when 16 oz. packages are unavailable.

‍USDA waived physical presence requirements: Although the scope and logistics are unclear at this time, USDA has given DOH permission to waive the requirement that persons be physically present at each certification or recertification determination in order to determine eligibility under the program through May 31, 2020.

USDA extends certification periods through May 31, 2020, for some participants.

For a list of current WIC waivers for Florida from USDA, go here.


Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF)

HHS provides guidance. HHS has issued guidance on the flexibilities in TANF to respond to COVID-19.

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