THE BILL ITSELF
SB 1652
Terminology Associated with Autism
Florida Senate - 2026 SB 1652 By Senator Burgess 23-01381-26 20261652__
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A bill to be entitled
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An act relating to terminology associated with autism;
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amending s. 393.063, F.S.; revising the definition of
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the term “autism”; providing an effective date.
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Be It Enacted by the Legislature of the State of Florida:
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Section 1. Subsection (5) of section 393.063, Florida
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Statutes, is amended to read:
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393.063 Definitions.—For the purposes of this chapter, the
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term:
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(5) “Autism” and “autism spectrum disorder” mean means a
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condition as defined by the most recent edition of the
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Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders of the
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American Psychiatric Association pervasive, neurologically based
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developmental disability of extended duration which causes
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severe learning, communication, and behavior disorders with age
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of onset during infancy or childhood. Individuals with autism
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exhibit impairment in reciprocal social interaction, impairment
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in verbal and nonverbal communication and imaginative ability,
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and a markedly restricted repertoire of activities and
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interests .
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Section 2. This act shall take effect July 1, 2026.