TALLAHASSEE, Fla. – Today, Governor Rick Scott signed SB 60, known as the “Keys to Independence Act,” which helps children in Florida’s foster care system obtain driver’s licenses. This legislation makes permanent a pilot program signed into law by Governor Scott in 2014 and expands the program to include children in out-of-home settings, such as relative or non-relative care givers.
Governor Scott said, “I’m proud to sign this legislation today to help Florida’s teens in foster care and out-of-home settings obtain their drivers licenses. This bill continues our efforts to help children in our foster system thrive and live their dreams in our state. I would like to thank DCF Secretary Mike Carroll and Florida Guardian ad Litem Executive Director Alan Abramowitz for their hard work on this important legislation.”
Florida Department of Children and Families Secretary Mike Carroll said, “Ensuring foster children in Florida have the opportunity to take part in age-appropriate activities such as participating in extracurricular activities, going to the beach, and getting a driver’s license is important for developing life-skills and healthy emotional development. We are grateful for the support from Governor Scott and the Florida legislature in removing barriers for children in foster care to have the same opportunities as every other child.”
To see a copy of the transmittal letter, click HERE.
