Children, Youth and Families
Effective July 1, 2010, the State Employees Adoption Benefits Program is no longer in Florida Statutes
The 2010 Florida Legislature passed House Bill 5305 that repealed section 409.1663, Florida Statutes. This means the State Employees Adoption Benefits Program will NO longer exist in Florida Statutes as of July 1, 2010. In addition, funding was not made available for the 2009 qualified applicants.
As a state agency, the Department of Children and Families must adhere to this law change. Therefore, the 2010 Open Enrollment will not take place in August and no benefits will be paid this year. It is possible that future legislation may be introduced to reinstitute the program.
The Department acknowledges the sacrifices you have made since opening your home and heart and giving a child a forever family. Your support to Florida’s most vulnerable children is essential. Please be assured that the Department will continue to work to find more ways to support Florida’s adoptive parents. You are strongly encouraged to participate in the adoptive parent support group in your local area. Please contact 1-800-96ADOPT (800-962-3678) if you need more information about a support group in your area.
