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 through hospitals, birth centers, and healthcare providers within the first two weeks after a newborn's birth.

Additionally, the bill requires the Department of Health to implement a multi-year phase-in plan for distributing these educational materials, starting with counties that have the highest birth rates. It allows for a statewide multimedia public education campaign to further prevent instances of abusive head trauma. Importantly, the bill includes provisions that protect hospitals and healthcare providers from civil liability for failing to provide the required information, ensuring that they are not held accountable for such omissions. The act is set to take effect on July 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
H 1349 Filed: 411.2035