New Florida law lets parents opt in to spanking in schools

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. (WCTV/Gray Florida Capital Bureau/Gray News) – Some Florida parents can now permit schools to use corporal punishment on their children.

A new state law allows families to opt into the practice, but only if their school district permits it.

Florida is now one of 14 states that still allow corporal punishment in public schools.

Under the law, school districts that allow corporal punishment must adopt a formal policy approved by the school board. Parents can then choose to sign a consent form authorizing school staff to use it.

Katie Becker, who leads Parenting Matters, a nonprofit that supports families across the Suncoast, believes corporal punishment is harmful.

“We have evidence and research showing corporal punishment adversely affects a child’s future outcomes,” Becker said. “Our goal for childhood isn’t just to survive it, it’s to thrive within it.”

Critics want Florida to join the 33 states that have banned the practice entirely. But State Rep. Dana Trabulsy, who sponsored the bill, said lawmakers weren’t ready to take that step this year.

“This is kind of a compromise,” Trabulsy said. “Keeping it, but still allowing it for those that want to.”

Trabulsy said the new law also tightens oversight, requiring clear rules for how it’s administered and how parents are notified.

According to the Florida Department of Education, corporal punishment was used more than 500 times in 17 districts during the 2023–2024 school year.

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