New Child Welfare Laws

Legislative Update: HB7065 was signed into law today, codifying a large child welfare package bill, which includes the following actions:

creates grants to address the needs of fathers & increase mentorship for at-risk boys
requires Florida’s child welfare system & home visit programs to increase services with and to fathers
directs DCF to contract for a Responsible Fatherhood Initiative to provide resources and inspiration to enhance the positive involvement of fathers with their children
requires DCF and the DJJ to identify children involved in both systems and report data to the legislature, including actions taken to better serve them
requires DoR ro provide information to those having difficulty paying child support
requires the DEO to expand programs serving noncustodial parents who are having difficulty paying child support.