FL H3503

Appropriates $5,076,543.08 from the General Revenue Fund to compensate C.M.H. for injuries sustained due to Department of Children and Families negligence.

Addresses a 2002 placement where DCF failed to disclose that a child in its custody (J.W.) was sexually aggressive and had a history of sexual abuse before placing him with C.M.H.'s family.

DCF failed to implement required safety plans and did not remove J.W. from the home after he sexually assaulted another child in October 2002.

A January 2014 jury trial resulted in a $5,176,543.08 judgment against DCF; this bill funds the remaining balance after $100,000 was paid under existing law.

Remaining funds after attorney fees and costs (capped at 25% of the award) shall be placed in an irrevocable trust for C.M.H.'s exclusive use and benefit.