Tomorrow, January 20, 2026, the Florida Senate Children, Families, and Elder Affairs Committee will hear SB 590: Statute of Limitations Period for Violations Involving Required Reports Concerning Children. 

What SB 590 Does

SB 590 would change Florida's statute of limitations for violations involving mandated reports concerning child abuse and neglect. Under current law, the time limit to bring charges in cases where someone failed to make a legally required report about suspected child abuse or neglect begins running shortly after the abuse occurs. SB 590 ensures that the limitations period does not start until a law enforcement agency is notified of the abuse. This change gives prosecutors sufficient time to hold accountable those who commit the abuse and those who fail to report. NASW-FL supports this bill and encourages members to take action ahead of the committee hearing.

How to Take Action

Contact committee Senators directly by visiting the committee webpage, selecting a Senator's name, and clicking the "Email" link located on the left side of the profile page.

When sending your message:

• Select "Child Welfare" as the email topic.
• In the comment section, clearly state that you urge the Senator to vote YES on SB 590 being heard in the Children, Families, and Elder Affairs Committee, tomorrow.

You may consider including one or more of the following points in your message:

• SB 590 strengthens protections for children by improving enforcement of reporting requirements.
• The bill prevents accountability from being lost due to the delayed discovery of abuse and violations.
• Florida's child welfare system is stronger when mandated reporting laws are fully enforceable.
• Children deserve policies that prioritize safety over procedural technicalities.