FL H6521

Department of Children and Families must request up to $180,000 annually in its legislative budget to replenish Angela Sozzani's special needs trust for placement costs and medical care not covered by Medicaid

Angela Sozzani (born April 21, 2000) suffered severe hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy after a near-drowning on April 17, 2002 while in DCF custody at a licensed foster home that was caring for more children than permitted

Net settlement proceeds of $978,837.62 were deposited into a special needs trust, including $200,000 paid by the Division of Financial Services ($100,000 each on behalf of DCF and the foster parents)

Upon Angela Sozzani's death, remaining trust funds must first satisfy any Medicaid lien, with the remainder reverting to the General Revenue Fund

Attorney fees, lobbying fees, and costs have not been awarded as legal representation was provided pro bono