The bill amends Florida Statutes to enhance the legal framework surrounding the surrender of infants. It revises the definition of "infant" to specify that it refers to a child approximately 30 days old or younger at the time of surrender. Additionally, it introduces the term "infant safety device," which is a specially designed device installed in hospitals, emergency medical services stations, or fire stations to facilitate the safe surrender of infants. The bill mandates that these facilities monitor the devices 24/7 and conduct regular checks to ensure their functionality. It also clarifies that parents who surrender infants in accordance with the law are presumed to consent to the termination of parental rights and can remain anonymous.

Further amendments are made to various sections of the law to align with these changes, including provisions that protect the confidentiality of the parent’s identity and ensure that surrendering an infant does not constitute neglect. The bill also stipulates that if a parent is unable to surrender the infant in person, they may call 911 for assistance. The act is set to take effect on July 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
H 791 Filed: 383.50, 39.201, 63.0423, 63.167, 383.51, 827.035, 827.10
H 791 c1: 383.50, 63.167, 383.51, 827.035
H 791 c2: 383.50, 63.167, 383.51, 827.035
H 791 er: 383.50, 63.167, 383.51, 827.035