FL Voice: Family court reform bill clears House, targets oversight of court-appointed psychologists
- Insights
- Apr 23, 2025
- 2 min read
Updated: Aug 10, 2025
TALLAHASSEE, Fla. — A major family court reform bill that would increase oversight of court-appointed psychologists is moving forward after passing the House with broad support.
What it does: HB 901 and SB 976 tighten procedures around the use of court-appointed psychologists in family court cases to promote fairness and accountability.
Requires parties to seek disqualification through the courts before filing administrative complaints.
Updates how disqualification motions are handled.
Revises rules on awarding costs and attorney fees in related proceedings.
Clarifies the process for parents challenging a psychologists recommendations, ensuring transparency and improving parenting plan outcomes.
The sponsors: Rep. David Borrero is carrying the House version; Sen. Mack Bernard is sponsoring the identical bill in the Senate.
What they are saying: Supporters say the measure is long-overdue and would restore pubic trust in the family court system.
“This bill represents a real opportunity to restore fairness and faith in Florida’s family court system,” Borrero said. “The strong bipartisan support speaks volumes about how important family law reform is to families across our state.”
“This is a moment where we can make meaningful, lasting changes that strengthen Florida families and improve our judicial system. I am honored to present this bill to the Senate,” Bernard said.
“This legislation is about ensuring fairness, dignity, and better outcomes for Florida families. I am grateful to Representative Borrero, Senator Bernard, and every member of the Legislature who supported this effort. Together, we’ve made a difference that will impact lives for generations to come,” Dr. Frantz said. Frantz, a Southwest Florida physician and family law advocate, whose years of leadership on judicial reform and firsthand experience with prior vetoed legislation helped reignite the drive for change.
Next step: The bill now heads to the Senate floor for a vote in the coming days. If approved, it would take effect July 1.
Update: Governor Ron DeSantis has officially signed HB 901 into law on May 22, 2025. The new reforms will take effect July 1, marking a major milestone in Florida’s ongoing effort to strengthen fairness and accountability in the family court system.
