FL S1582

Creates the Task Force on the Monitoring of Children in Out-of-Home Care within the Department of Children and Families with 15 members appointed by the Governor (5), Senate President (5), and House Speaker (5).

Task force membership includes representatives from the Department of Children and Families, Department of Law Enforcement, Guardian Ad Litem Program, Safe Kids Florida, community-based care lead agencies, and Child Protection Teams.

Task force shall develop a statewide system for monitoring children in out-of-home care, improve use of technology and communication among child welfare entities, and create uniform guidelines and protocols for responding when children go missing.

Members are not entitled to per diem or travel expense reimbursement and may conduct meetings through teleconferences or electronic means.

Task force must submit monthly reports on missing children to the Department of Children and Families secretary and annually submit recommendations to the Governor and Legislature beginning January 1, 2022.