08/21/2024

NOTICE: Effects of HB 1083 on Heart Galleries

On July 1st, 2024, House Bill 1083 came into effect. A memo from DCF was sent to all Heart Galleries across the states on July 22nd informing us that this new law “requires that the photo listing component of the statewide adoption exchange not be accessible to the public except to persons who have a completed or are in the process of completing an adoption home study”. Upon receiving this notice, we immediately removed the youth from our website and social media. We will remain closed in our representation until we receive clarification on aspects of the bill and how we can best represent our youth to adoptive families.

Since receiving this notice, I have been meeting with Heart Galleries across the state to discuss next steps. We all agree this new law has the best intent and aims to address an issue we have long struggled with when it comes to walking the fine line of youth representation without putting our youth at risk. When the mission of the Heart Gallery was founded, access to youth photos and the risk of bullying was not as large of a risk as it is with today’s technology and social media presence. While we do understand the need for change and welcome a new approach, there is much that needs to be considered when it comes to the effects of this bill on the Heart Gallery youth, adoptive families, and our core mission of finding forever homes.

It is with this in mind that I have met with DCF and Representative Dana Trabulsy, the bill sponsor. All involved have openly welcomed the Heart Gallery voice. They recognize the work that we do as direct service providers to these youth and families and our model that is founded in youth voice. Because of this, we have been formally invited to collaborate with DCF and Rep. Trabulsy to find a path that honors the intent of this new law while also ensuring that family recruitment remains impactful, leading to continued success of finding forever homes.

We hope to have more news in the coming months on the evolution of the Heart Gallery model and new methods to represent our youth that protect them from this new era. We thank you for your patience.

In the meantime, families may reach out to us directly to connect with ChildNet Home Finders. They will be able to share with you information about youth available for adoption in Broward once they can validate your home study. Please visit our website and submit a contact form at https://heartgalleryofbroward.org/contact.

If you have any questions or concerns, please feel free to reach out to me at 954-918-3008 x 222 or mary@heartgalleryofbroward.org.

With Heart,

Dr. Mary Kinirons    
Executive Director