The bill amends Section 411.2035 of the Florida Statutes to enhance education on abusive head trauma, specifically focusing on shaken baby syndrome. It mandates the Department of Health to adopt evidence-based parent education materials that detail the dangers of abusive head trauma and outlines specific requirements for these materials. The new provisions include information on the effects of shaking infants, appropriate management of stressors that may lead to such actions, safe infant sleep practices, and the importance of selecting responsible caregivers. The materials can be distributed in various formats, including written, visual, or electronic applications.

Additionally, the bill establishes a multi-year phase-in plan for distributing these educational materials, starting with counties that have the highest birth rates. It requires hospitals, birth centers, and healthcare providers to provide these materials to new parents within two weeks of birth and encourages ongoing education through childbirth educators and pediatric practices. The bill also clarifies that no civil liability will arise for failure to provide or receive the required information, ensuring that healthcare providers are protected. The act is set to take effect on July 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
S 1482 Filed: 411.2035