The bill amends Section 411.2035 of the Florida Statutes to enhance education on the dangers of abusive head trauma, specifically addressing shaken baby syndrome. It mandates the Department of Health to adopt evidence-based parent education materials that detail the risks associated with abusive head trauma and provide guidance on managing situations that may lead to such harm. The materials must cover various topics, including the effects of shaking infants, safe sleep practices, and the importance of selecting responsible caregivers. The bill also specifies that these materials can be distributed in written, visual, or electronic formats.

Additionally, the bill outlines a distribution plan for the parent education materials, requiring hospitals, birth centers, and healthcare providers to provide this information to new parents within two weeks of birth. It establishes a multi-year phase-in plan starting with counties that have the highest birth rates and encourages a statewide public education campaign to prevent abusive head trauma. The bill also includes provisions that protect healthcare providers from civil liability for failing to provide the required information. The act is set to take effect on July 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
H 1349 Filed: 411.2035