Judiciary Committee advances bill tightening enforcement for mandatory child-abuse reporters

The Florida House Judiciary Committee on Thursday voted to report HB 373, a bill from Rep. Ryan Duggan that sponsors said would provide "enhanced enforcement tools" for mandatory reporters who fail to report suspected child abuse.

Duggan told the panel the bill is "enhanced enforcement tools against mandatory reporters who failed to report known or suspected child abuse." There was no sustained debate, and the committee waived extended discussion after limited public testimony.

Clerk roll call showed an 18-0 favorable report from the committee. Committee leaders indicated the measure will move forward to the next legislative step.

Supporters said the bill strengthens accountability for professionals who are statutorily required to report suspected child abuse; no amendments were recorded during the committee hearing. Opponents did not prevail in blocking the measure and offered no recorded motions to alter its enforcement provisions.

The committee ended consideration quickly and reported HB 373 favorably. The next procedural step is consideration by the full House or assignment to a further calendar according to House rules.