FL S0936

Eliminates mandatory direct filing requirements for children charged with certain crimes; raises minimum age for discretionary direct filing from 14-15 years to 16-17 years old.

Removes provisions requiring automatic adult prosecution for children meeting specified prior adjudication or offense criteria; allows discretionary waiver hearings with expanded consideration of child's age, maturity, mental development, and rehabilitation prospects.

Requires courts to include detailed information in disposition orders regarding detention time, waivers of rights, plea agreements, and case processing in both juvenile and adult courts.

Mandates data collection by Department of Juvenile Justice beginning January 1, 2019, tracking demographics, charges, prior adjudications, mental health history, and outcomes for children eligible for or transferred to adult prosecution; requires annual reporting to Governor and Legislature.

Prohibits transfer to adult court until child's competency is restored; allows children transferred to adult court to request fitness hearings for potential return to juvenile court; requires complete separation of children ages 16-17 from adult offenders in correctional facilities.