Modifies provisions relating to guardian ad litem fees

HB 1885 modifies the rules for appointing and compensating guardians ad litem in Florida child welfare and family law cases. The bill clarifies that judges must appoint these representatives for children in specific proceedings and for parents who are minors or mentally incompetent, while also allowing appointments for abused or neglected children. It grants guardians access to all relevant case records and meetings, requires judges to check their criminal backgrounds before appointment, and mandates that they complete training focused on achieving permanent placements for children quickly. Regarding payment, the bill allows courts to award reasonable fees to be paid by parties or public funds, but explicitly prohibits charging fees against individuals who have not been found responsible for abuse, neglect, or certain violent offenses. Additionally, the legislation permits the use of unpaid volunteer advocates to assist with these duties and removes filing fees for petitioners in protection order cases.