Senator Collati explained Senate Bill 12 40 to the committee as a package aimed at increasing access to substance use and mental health services, improving oversight of the 988 crisis hotline and strengthening standards for forensic evaluators.

The sponsor said the bill would designate the state agency responsible for oversight of the 988 Lifeline, change the medication‑assisted treatment (MAT) licensing process by repealing an annual needs assessment that currently constrains provider licensure for methadone maintenance, and require annual continuing education for professionals listed as forensic evaluators so courts receive up‑to‑date recommendations about placement and competency.

An amendment offered and explained by the sponsor aligned the bill with its House companion and made technical conforming changes, clarified discharge procedures for guardian advocates and reinstated language regarding administrative law judge orders that had been mistakenly deleted. Committee members praised the bill as consistent with recommendations from the Behavioral Health Commission; one senator noted the commission had produced 30 recommendations and that this bill addressed one of them.

Supporters at the hearing included Barney Bishop of Florida Smart Justice Alliance, who waived in support. Senators in committee expressed general support, calling the measure a needed improvement to behavioral health oversight and access.

The committee adopted the amendment and reported CS for SB 12 40 favorably. The transcript records adoption of the amendment and a favorable report; a detailed roll call tally was not specified in the transcript.