The bill amends section 63.0427 of the Florida Statutes to establish provisions for contracts regarding postadoption contact between adopted children and their legal relatives. It defines "legal relative" and allows adoptive parents and biological parents, along with the adopted child (if 14 years or older), to enter into a written contract that facilitates continued contact until the child turns 18. The bill specifies that certain provisions of these contracts are unenforceable, particularly those that allow contact with individuals legally restrained from such contact or that impede the adoptive family's ability to relocate. Additionally, the contracts must include specific statements regarding the validity of the adoption and custody matters.
The bill also outlines the process for filing, modifying, or terminating these contracts, emphasizing that any party can file the contract with the court, which will incorporate it into the final adoption order. The continuing validity of the adoption is not dependent on compliance with the contract terms. The bill provides a structured approach for enforcement, requiring mediation and psychological evaluations if disputes arise. It also states that the contract will automatically terminate when the adopted child reaches 18 years of age. The act is set to take effect on July 1, 2025.