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NewsWUSF (NPR Tampa Bay) — EducationAugust 18, 2026Hillsborough

Florida reports $6.57 billion in state spending on applied behavior analysis therapy for children

Florida has spent $6.57 billion on applied behavior analysis (ABA) therapy for children with special needs, including autism, over the two-year period from 2023 to 2025. This expenditure represents the highest amount spent by any state in the nation for this specific therapy during that timeframe.

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Why It Matters

This figure represents the total state investment in ABA therapy services for children with special needs over the last two fiscal years, highlighting the scale of Florida's healthcare spending in this sector.

Key Facts

  • Florida spent $6.57 billion on applied behavior analysis (ABA) therapy between 2023 and 2025.
  • Florida's spending on ABA therapy is the highest of any state in the nation for the 2023-2025 period.
  • The funding is directed toward therapy for children with special needs, specifically including those with autism.

Who's Mentioned

personNicole Grabner“Parent and advocate for children with autism”organizationPediatric Associates“Healthcare provider challenging Medicaid payment rates”personShevaun Harris“Secretary of the Agency for Health Care Administration”personMehmet Oz“CMS Director”personShena Grantham“Deputy secretary for Medicaid policy and quality”locationFlorida“The state government responsible for the reported spending.”organizationApplied Behavior Analysis Task Force“Legislatively mandated panel reviewing ABA services”