Pays $296,400 to Family in Settlement
Florida · S0022 · Introduced Aug 7, 2026
Why it matters
The family would receive $296,400 for injuries and damages, which would end their other claims over the same events. Attorney fees could take no more than a quarter of that money.
What it does
- Appropriates $296,400 from state General Revenue to Michael Barnett and R.B.
- Sets the Children and Families department as the party paying the award
- Caps attorney fees at 25 percent of the total amount awarded
Introduced
Next: committee review
- Introduceddone
- Committeecurrent step
- Senatenot yet
- Housenot yet
- Governornot yet
About this bill
Would pay Michael Barnett and R.B. $296,400 from state general revenue for injuries tied to the Children and Families department's handling of a 2010 case. Attorney fees are capped at 25 percent of the award.
Relief of Michael Barnett by the Department of Children and Families
Perspectives
💬 The case for
Family law advocates would likely say the state failed to act on clear warning signs. The payment compensates the family for that failure.
💬 The case against
Some taxpayer groups would likely say the state should not pay more public money on this case. They may also argue the settlement already resolved the claim.
Sponsored by
Sponsor details for this state bill are at the source link.
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