FL S0516

Prohibits the Department of Children and Families from deeming a home study unfavorable solely because a potential custodian temporarily resides in a certified domestic violence center

Prevents removal of a child from placement when the custodian and child temporarily reside in a domestic violence center, provided the custodian notifies DCF within 24 hours and the center affirms the placement remains appropriate and protective via affidavit

Bars courts from finding that placement with a non-custodial parent would endanger a child solely because that parent temporarily resides in a certified domestic violence center

Protects the presumption that a child should remain in a safe, stable placement of 9+ months from being rebutted solely due to the child and caregiver temporarily residing in a domestic violence center, subject to the same 24-hour notification and affidavit requirements

Effective date: July 1, 2026