The bill amends several sections of Florida Statutes to enhance the placement options for children in situations involving domestic violence. It revises the definition of "shelter" to include certified domestic violence centers, thereby allowing these centers to be considered a priority placement option for children who cannot safely remain at home. The bill also stipulates that the Department of Children and Families (DCF) is not required to conduct a home study for placements in certified domestic violence centers, streamlining the process for placing children in these facilities. Additionally, it allows courts to place children and their legal custodians in certified domestic violence centers under specific conditions, such as when the custodian is fleeing domestic violence.

Furthermore, the bill introduces provisions for at-risk placements in certified domestic violence centers, waiving preliminary home study requirements under certain circumstances. It mandates that the DCF must be notified within 24 hours of a child's placement in such a center and requires coordination between the center and the department for case management purposes. The court is also instructed to consider the totality of circumstances when making placement decisions, ensuring that the safety and well-being of the child are prioritized without presuming that previously approved homes are always preferable. Overall, the bill aims to provide more flexible and immediate support for children affected by domestic violence.

Statutes affected:
H 435 Filed: 39.01, 39.4021