FL H0197

Amends the definition of child "abandonment" to exclude the absence of a parent, legal custodian, or caregiver who is a servicemember absent due to deployment or anticipated deployment as defined in 50 U.S.C. § 3938(e).

Clarifies that Florida state law relating to children does not supersede the Servicemembers Civil Relief Act (50 U.S.C. §§ 3901 et seq.) or the Indian Child Welfare Act and Multi-Ethnic Placement Act.

Requires the Department of Children and Families to ensure the Servicemembers Civil Relief Act is observed in cases where a servicemember parent, legal custodian, or caregiver is unable to take custody or appear in court due to military service.

Takes effect July 1, 2020.