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Agency for Persons With Disabilities’ Budget Request Asks for $8.8M for IT

The Florida Agency for Persons with Disabilities is the second agency Industry Insider — Florida is reviewing regarding its newly released LBR, detailing the funds required for technology-related projects.

teacher and girl with Down syndrome at a computer
Next up for Industry Insider — Florida’s review of state agencies’ legislative budget requests (LBRs) is the Agency for Persons with Disabilities (APD).

APD is requesting a total of $8,856,365 for several technology initiatives.

The largest request is $2.45 million for an online application system.

In Fiscal Year 2023-24, Florida Statutes 393.065 was updated to mandate an online application process for the agency. This will facilitate electronic submissions, immediate receipt acknowledgment and status tracking.

APD processes service applications to meet time standards. Applications are submitted on paper, and staff manually enter data. To verify eligibility under the law, APD reviews supporting documents, but incomplete applications may need extra time for assessment.

The new system will enable applicants to complete forms, upload documents and receive updates. For APD, it will enhance data analytics and streamline processes, allowing more focus on assisting those in need of their services.

Other key funding requests include:
  • $1,542,000 for training and ongoing support for the iConnect system, a client data management system
  • $1,429,224 for cloud hosting and maintenance services and data services
  • $1,325,056 for Florida Planning, Accounting and Ledger Management (PALM) readiness
  • $1,200,960 for computer refresh expenses to replace 540 computers that will be out of warranty before June 2026
  • $759,125 for licensing and data management of the electronic visit verification system
More information about the agency’s legislative budget requests can be found online.
Cristina Carter is a Tallahassee-based staff writer. She has a bachelor's degree in English literature and a master's degree in international affairs, both from Florida State University.