FL H1345

Amends the Relative Caregiver Program to include nonrelatives who are willing to assume custody and care of dependent children and their half-siblings as a result of court determinations of abuse, neglect, or abandonment.

Requires nonrelative caregivers to be given court-ordered temporary legal custody under protective supervision of the Department of Children and Families, with court findings that placement is in the child's best interest.

Extends financial assistance, family support services, and Medicaid eligibility to nonrelative caregivers on the same basis as relative caregivers, with monthly benefit amounts determined by the child's age.

Exempts both relative and nonrelative caregivers from foster care licensing requirements under Florida law.

Takes effect July 1, 2014.