FL S0358

Expands the definition of "athletic coach" to include coaches, assistant coaches, and referees authorized to work 20+ hours per year with youth athletic teams and having direct contact with minors.

Requires independent sanctioning authorities to conduct level 1 background screenings on all current and prospective athletic coaches annually, with this responsibility non-delegable to individual teams.

Mandates background screenings include searches against state and federal sexual predator and offender registries maintained by the Department of Law Enforcement and U.S. Attorney General.

Requires disqualification of persons identified on sexual offender registries or as provided under s. 435.03, but allows exemptions if the person meets requirements under s. 435.07.

Mandates written notice to disqualified persons within 7 business days and requires maintaining screening documentation for at least 5 years.