Bill
SB 22
SB 22 allocates $28 million to support L.P., a minor harmed by DCF's negligence, ensuring funds for her medical and psychological care through a special needs trust.
Bill Number: SB 22
Introduced: August 1, 2025
Status: Referred to Special Master on Claim Bills; Judiciary; Appropriations Committee on Health and Human Services; Appropriations
Sponsor: Senator Gruters
SB 22 aims to provide financial relief to L.P., a minor, for injuries and damages sustained due to the negligence of employees and caseworkers of the Florida Department of Children and Families (DCF). The bill seeks to appropriate $28 million from the General Revenue Fund to compensate L.P. for the severe consequences of DCF's failure to protect her from harm.
Compensation Amount: The bill appropriates $28 million to L.P. for injuries and damages resulting from DCF's negligence.
Trust Fund: The funds will be directed to a special needs trust established for L.P.'s exclusive benefit, ensuring that the compensation is used for her medical and psychological needs.
Limitation on Fees: The total amount paid for attorney fees, lobbying fees, and similar expenses related to this claim is capped at 25% of the total amount awarded.
Statutory Cap Compliance: The bill acknowledges that DCF has already paid $200,000 towards the claim, in accordance with Florida's statutory cap on liability.
Effective Date: The act will take effect upon becoming law.
On June 25, 2015, a wellness check was requested for L.P.'s mother due to concerning behavior. DCF's response was inadequate, failing to recognize the mother's mental health issues and leaving L.P. in her custody.
Shortly after DCF's intervention, L.P.'s mother attempted to murder her, resulting in L.P. being stabbed multiple times and requiring extensive medical treatment, including lifesaving surgeries.
A jury trial in 2022 found DCF negligent, awarding L.P. $28 million in damages. This judgment was upheld by the Second District Court of Appeal.
L.P. has incurred significant costs related to her medical care, psychological counseling, and loss of earning capacity, totaling over $14 million in medical expenses and $1.5 million in lost earnings.
The passage of SB 22 would provide critical financial support to L.P. for her ongoing medical and psychological needs resulting from the traumatic events she endured. It aims to ensure that she receives the necessary care and support for her lifetime, addressing both her immediate and future needs.
This bill represents a significant legislative effort to address the consequences of negligence within the child welfare system and to provide justice for L.P. and her family.
Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.
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