FL H1209

Creates section 39.4087 of Florida Statutes establishing legislative goals for the Department of Children and Families to treat foster parents, kinship caregivers, and nonrelative caregivers with dignity, respect, and trust.

Requires the department to provide caregivers with clear explanations of roles and responsibilities, training and support for child care needs, and full disclosure of relevant information about the child including health history, behavioral issues, criminal records, and abuse history.

Mandates the department allow caregivers to communicate with child professionals, provide 24/7 contact access to community-based care lead agencies, solicit caregiver input on case plans, and provide at least 7 days' notice of meetings or court hearings.

Establishes a three-level dispute resolution process for caregivers to report violations: initial notification to case manager or liaison, escalation to supervisor if unresolved, and final department review with written response within 30 days.

Takes effect July 1, 2019.