The bill amends Florida Statutes to revise the definitions of "harm" and "neglect" as they pertain to child welfare. Specifically, it updates the definition of harm in section 39.01 to include a broader range of physical, mental, and emotional injuries, while also detailing the factors that should be considered when evaluating such harm. The bill introduces new language that clarifies that neglect does not include a caregiver allowing a child to engage in independent and unsupervised activities unless such conduct is deemed reckless and endangers the child's health or safety. Additionally, it emphasizes that caregivers are not neglectful for permitting age-appropriate activities, provided these do not pose a serious risk to the child.

Furthermore, the bill modifies the definition of neglect in section 827.03 to include the term "willful" in relation to a caregiver's failure to provide necessary care and supervision. It also reiterates that neglect may be based on repeated conduct or a single incident that could lead to serious injury or risk of death to a child. The bill reenacts references to the definitions of child abuse and neglect in other sections of the law to ensure consistency with the updated definitions. The act is set to take effect on July 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
S 1286 Filed: 827.03
S 1286 er: 827.03