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Committee backs bill clarifying unsupervised play does not automatically amount to child neglect
Summary
CS for SB 1286 was reported favorably after sponsor Senator Grahl told the committee the bill clarifies that ordinary unsupervised activities like biking or playing outside do not constitute child neglect unless they are reckless or dangerous.
The Florida Senate Appropriations Committee on Criminal and Civil Justice on Oct. 12 reported CS for SB 1286 favorably. Senator Grahl, sponsor of the bill, said the measure "clarifies that parents allowing children to participate in unsupervised activities does not constitute harm or neglect, unless the permission of these activities would be reckless and endanger the child." He listed examples including "biking, walking, or playing outside near their home unsupervised."
Grahl told the committee the bill is intended to preserve parental discretion "without fear of scrutiny from law enforcement or a child abuse investigation." There was no recorded opposition in the committee record and Senator Grahl waived closing. The committee voted to report the bill favorably by roll call; all members present voted yes.
The bill will move forward in the Senate process for further consideration.
