Shared family care residential services program for substance-exposed newborns.

(1) LEGISLATIVE FINDINGS AND INTENT.—The Legislature finds that there is evidence that, with appropriate support and training, some families can remain safely together without court involvement or traumatic separations. Therefore, it is the intent of the Legislature that alternative types of placement options be available which provide both safety for substance-exposed newborns and an opportunity for parents recovering from substance abuse disorders to achieve independence while living together in a protective, nurturing family environment.

(2) ESTABLISHMENT OF PILOT PROGRAM.—The department shall establish a shared family care residential services program to serve substance-exposed newborns and their families through a contract with the designated lead agency established in accordance with s. 409.987 or with a private entity capable of providing residential care that satisfies the requirements of this section. The private entity or lead agency is responsible for all programmatic functions necessary to carry out the intent of this section. As used in this section, the term “shared family care” means out-of-home care in which an entire family in need is temporarily placed in the home of a family who is trained to mentor and support the biological parents as they develop the caring skills and supports necessary for independent living.

(3) SERVICES.—The department shall specify services that must be made available to newborns and their families through the pilot program.