Bill > S1796

This bill strengthens protections and provisions for sibling visitation and contact in cases where children are separated through out-of-home care or adoption in Florida. The legislation emphasizes the critical importance of maintaining sibling relationships by expanding legal mechanisms for siblings to request and maintain visitation or contact, even when they are in different placements. Specifically, the bill allows a separated sibling to file a motion for visitation or contact in court, gives that sibling legal standing to participate in proceedings, and requires courts to hold hearings on such motions. Courts can only deny sibling visitation if there is clear and convincing evidence that such contact would be harmful to the siblings' safety and well-being. If visitation is initially denied, the court must direct child welfare agencies to provide services that could potentially restore sibling contact. The bill also requires that prospective adoptive parents be informed about the expectation that they will help maintain sibling connections, and it ensures that courts retain jurisdiction to address sibling visitation even after permanent guardianship is established. These changes aim to prioritize the emotional and developmental needs of children in the child welfare system by preserving their familial connections.

https://www.flsenate.gov/Session/Bill/2025/1796