FL S2718

Requires comprehensive behavioral health assessments for all children placed in out-of-home care within 7 days of placement, with assessments provided to physicians developing mental health treatment plans.

Mandates appointment of a guardian ad litem to represent children prescribed psychotropic medications, with duties including participation in treatment plan development, monitoring compliance, and submitting written reports every 45 days.

Establishes procedures requiring express and informed consent from parents/guardians and assent from children (age-appropriate) before psychotropic medications are administered, with detailed information requirements about diagnosis, medication, benefits, risks, and alternatives.

Requires court authorization for psychotropic medication administration when parental consent cannot be obtained, with exceptions for emergency situations and specific residential care settings (hospitals, crisis units, therapeutic group homes, inpatient psychiatric programs).

Prohibits psychotropic medication for children ages birth through 10 years without a compelling governmental interest finding and mandatory review by a child psychiatrist before court authorization; prohibits children in state custody from participating in clinical trials for psychotropic medications.