FL S0388

Establishes legislative findings that approximately 73,000 children in Florida have a parent in prison and face obstacles including unstable housing, school instability, financial hardship, and social stigma.

Directs state agencies to use guiding principles when working with children of incarcerated parents, including treating them with respect and dignity and prioritizing their safety and care.

Requires state agencies to facilitate communication between children and incarcerated parents if the children choose, keep children informed and safe during parent arrests, and consider children's wishes in welfare decisions.

Prohibits state agencies from judging, blaming, or labeling children because of parental incarceration and requires support for children maintaining relationships with incarcerated parents when appropriate.

Does not obligate state agencies to provide additional support or services beyond those already authorized by law or to prioritize children of incarcerated parents in service delivery.