New Law Benefits Our Athletes

Special Olympics Florida and the Special Olympics Florida Foundation are excited to share the news that Florida House Bill 453 has officially become law — creating new opportunities for students with intellectual disabilities across the state.

The law allows students with disabilities to participate in Special Olympics Florida as a course substitution for the physical education requirement for a standard high school diploma. Students are required to participate for one school year, as determined by their Individual Education Plan (IEP) team. In simple terms, students can now receive school PE credit for the training, competition, teamwork, and physical activity they already experience through Special Olympics Florida.

This important step recognizes what Special Olympics Florida athletes, families, coaches, and supporters have always known: participation in sports builds confidence, promotes healthy lifestyles, teaches teamwork, and creates meaningful opportunities for inclusion and personal growth. The bill’s sponsor, State Representative Peggy Gossett-Seidman, appeared at the opening ceremonies of our State Summer Games to tell our athletes about the new law.

“This legislation is a powerful step for students across the state of Florida,” said Special Olympics Florida President and CEO Meghan McLean. “Students who participate in Special Olympics Florida programming demonstrate teamwork, physical fitness, and leadership every day. Granting physical education credit for this participation acknowledges the value of those experiences and the importance of creating opportunities where every student belongs. We are so thankful to Rep. Peggy Gossett-Seidman and State Sen. Lori Berman for championing this legislation. We’re also grateful to their colleagues for supporting it and to Gov. Ron DeSantis for signing it into law.”

Sherry Wheelock, President of the Special Olympics Florida Foundation, agreed: “This legislation will significantly expand access to high quality opportunities in schools and communities for thousands of individuals with unique abilities,” she said. “We are excited about this monumental achievement by the state of Florida and are ready to provide an all-star welcome to the students who may now be encouraged to be part of Special Olympics Florida.”