This bill amends sections of Florida Statutes related to the care of dependent children, specifically focusing on the responsibilities of the Department of Children and Families and community-based care lead agencies. It mandates that these entities coordinate with organizations that empower children with lived experience, requiring them to meet at least quarterly to discuss challenges and opportunities within the child welfare system. These meetings must have a formal agenda, and the minutes must be made available on their respective websites. Additionally, starting in 2027, both the department and the agencies are required to publish biannual reports on their websites detailing how they have implemented suggestions from these meetings.

Furthermore, the bill introduces a new requirement for caregivers to provide a weekly cash allowance to children in their care, starting at age six. This allowance is not to be withheld as punishment and cannot be used for essential items that are the caregiver's responsibility. The minimum allowance is set at $1 per week for children aged 6 to 12 and $20 per week for those aged 13 to 17. Caregivers are also encouraged to provide opportunities for children to earn money through chores and assist them in finding employment if desired. The Department of Children and Families is authorized to adopt rules to implement these provisions, with the act set to take effect on July 1, 2026.