Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis, a Republican, signed legislation Monday to support and promote responsible fatherhood in the Sunshine State.
The bill will offer educational programs, mentorship programs, and one-on-one guidance to strengthen the connections between fathers and their families, according to a statement from DeSantis.
“There are more than 18 million children in our country who live without a father in their home,” DeSantis said. “This has a severe impact on children and often leads to dropping out of school, crime, and substance abuse. Incredibly, there are those who diminish the importance of fatherhood and the nuclear family — we will not let that happen in our state.”
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The legislation, officially titled H.B. 7065, authorizes nearly $70 million in funding to secure family and youth support in cooperation with the Department of Juvenile Justice and the Department of Children and Families, according to the statement.
“I am proud to say we are doing everything we can to support involved fatherhood in Florida,” DeSantis added.
Under the legislation, DCF officials will launch an awareness campaign to shine a light on the importance of responsible fatherhood and give the men of Florida the tools they need to remain in the lives of their children, the statement noted.
“Our Department is very excited about this new fatherhood initiative, and we are so grateful for the Governor and Legislature’s leadership in providing funding that strengthens families through responsible parenting,” DCF Secretary Shevaun Harris said.
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“Studies have shown that when fathers are involved in their children’s lives, there are undeniable benefits — children are statistically less likely to be abused or neglected, and they have fewer behavioral and psychological problems. The Department of Children and Families is laser-focused on preventing adverse outcomes for children, so having the opportunity to work on this initiative is truly an honor.”
