FL H1567

Repeals the Department of Children and Family Services' authority to unilaterally prescribe psychotropic medications to children in state custody and creates new statutory protections requiring court authorization and informed consent.

Requires appointment of a court-appointed guardian ad litem to represent the best interests of children in state custody who are prescribed psychotropic medications, with duties including oversight of care and notification of status changes within 24 hours.

Mandates express and informed consent from parents or legal guardians and age-appropriate assent from children before psychotropic medication administration, with detailed requirements for physician explanations in plain language.

Establishes that children ages birth through 10 years old cannot be prescribed psychotropic medications absent a compelling governmental interest, and requires review by a licensed child psychiatrist before such prescriptions in this age group.

Requires development of comprehensive mental health treatment plans within 7 days of out-of-home placement, documentation of adverse side effects, and prohibition on children in state custody participating in clinical trials for psychotropic medications; effective July 1, 2010.