FL S1172

Defines "mental injury" in child abuse cases as a discernible and substantial impairment in a child's ability to function, supported by expert testimony.

Requires physicians providing expert testimony on child abuse to be licensed under Florida law or board-certified in psychiatry; requires psychologists to be licensed under chapter 490.

Reorganizes section 827.03 to clarify definitions and penalties for child abuse (3rd degree felony), aggravated child abuse (1st degree felony), and child neglect offenses (2nd or 3rd degree felonies depending on harm caused).

Expands the definition of "crime" for victims compensation purposes to include psychiatric or psychological injury to persons under 18 years old who were not physically injured, and expands the definition of "victim" to include minors who suffered such injuries from criminal offenses.

Conforms cross-references throughout Florida Statutes (sections 775.084, 775.0877, 782.07, 921.0022, 948.062, and 960.03) to reflect the restructured child abuse statute provisions, effective October 1, 2012.