State Mandated Programs

Hernando County is required by Florida law to administer or fund several programs related to health, safety, and welfare. Below is an overview of each mandated program and the statute that requires it.

State Mandated Programs

Florida Statute 154.301

Health Care Responsibility Act (HCRA)

Provides funding for out-of-county emergency inpatient hospitalization for indigent Hernando County residents at participating hospitals. Eligibility for this program is initiated by the treating hospital.

Florida Statute 409.915

Contributions to Medicaid

Requires Hernando County to reimburse the State of Florida for a portion of Medicaid costs associated with hospital and nursing home services provided to the County's Medicaid recipients.

Florida Statute 394.457(3)

Baker Act Services

Requires the County to provide matching funds for crisis stabilization services for individuals experiencing a mental health crisis under the Baker Act.

Florida Statute 39.304(5)

Child Protection Team Medical Examinations

Requires counties to cover the initial costs of medical examinations for children who are allegedly abused, abandoned, or neglected.

Florida Statute 985.686

Detention Cost Sharing

Requires counties to share the cost of juvenile detention services with the Florida Department of Juvenile Justice.

Learn more at the DJJ Detention Services page

Florida Statute 901.35

Arrested Persons Medical Costs

Requires counties to cover hospital charges for individuals who need medical attention while in the custody of local law enforcement.

Florida Statute 406.50

Disposition of Unclaimed Bodies & Indigent Cremation

Hernando County provides cremation services for deceased unclaimed or indigent individuals who died within the geographical boundaries of Hernando County. Only simple cremation is provided — the County does not supplement funeral expenses. Eligibility is based on federal poverty guidelines.

Required Documentation

To determine eligibility, the following documents are needed for all household members:

  • Photo identification (18 years of age and older)
  • Social security cards
  • Birth certificates
  • Bank statements (last 60 days)
  • Proof of income (last 4 weeks)
  • Proof of all assets (vehicle, home, real property, stocks, cash, trusts, bonds, etc.)
  • Copy of wills, insurance policies, pre-burial arrangements, or DD-214 (if applicable)

How to Apply

Download and complete the Disposition of Unclaimed and Indigent Cremation Application, then submit by fax to (352) 540-4339, or mail/deliver to:

621 W. Jefferson Street
Brooksville, FL 34601


Veterans

The VA offers a Pre-Need Determination of Eligibility Program that allows veterans and eligible family members to find out in advance if they qualify for burial or memorialization in a VA national cemetery.

Check your eligibility at va.gov

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