The bill CS/CS/HB 1153 amends several sections of Florida Statutes to enhance the recognition and support for juvenile detention and probation officers, placing them alongside law enforcement and correctional officers in various provisions. Key insertions include the definitions of "juvenile detention officer" and "juvenile probation officer," as well as expanding eligibility for retirement benefits and awards, such as the Medal of Valor, to these officers. The bill also allows employers to present uniforms and service handguns to retiring or deceased juvenile officers, similar to existing provisions for other law enforcement personnel. Additionally, it modifies the responsibilities of counties regarding juvenile detention costs, requiring non-fiscally constrained counties to pay their share and ensuring that the Department of Juvenile Justice reviews these payments quarterly.

Moreover, the bill clarifies definitions and processes related to child welfare, particularly concerning abandonment and services for families in need. It specifies that "abandonment" occurs when a parent or legal custodian fails to contribute significantly to a child's care or maintain a substantial relationship, while military deployment cannot be used as a factor in determining abandonment. The bill also outlines criteria for establishing a "substantial and positive relationship" with a child and mandates mediation in dependency cases to be conducted nonadversarially. Additionally, it requires the Department of Children and Families to develop an information guide for families in need of services and establishes procedures for case staffing committees to ensure collaborative support for children and families. Overall, the bill aims to improve the legal framework surrounding juvenile justice and child welfare while enhancing support for those working in these fields.

Statutes affected:
H 1153 Filed: 14.33, 112.19, 787.035, 943.10, 984.03, 984.09
H 1153 c1: 14.33, 112.19, 787.035, 943.10, 984.03, 984.09
H 1153 c2: 14.33, 112.19, 943.10, 984.03, 984.09, 985.6865
H 1153 er: 14.33, 112.19, 943.10, 984.03, 984.09, 985.6865