I am urging the state of Florida to enforce mandatory DNA tests for every man and child before signing a birth certificate.

According to the American Association of Blood Banks, almost 30% of paternity tests conducted annually reveal that the man tested is not the biological father (American Association of Blood Banks, 2019). By making this DNA test mandatory, we can significantly reduce instances of paternity fraud and its devastating impacts. These incorrect assignments leave fathers unknowingly raising children that aren't biologically theirs and unknowing biological fathers missing out on being a part of their child's life.

Implementing mandatory DNA testing before signing a birth certificate will not only help to reduce paternity fraud, but also contribute to addressing the issue of fatherlessness. Numerous studies have shown that children who grow up without their biological fathers are more likely to experience a range of negative outcomes, including increased risk of poverty, poor educational achievement, incarceration, and negative health outcomes (The National Fatherhood Initiative, 2018).

Therefore, this solution not only advocates for the right of men to have certainty about their paternity but also champions the interest of the child to know and have a relationship with their biological father, a factor that is significant to their overall wellbeing.

Join me in this fight to end paternity fraud and fatherlessness in Florida. Show your support for DNA testing before signing a birth certificate. It is time to bring a change that will benefit all involved – the child, the father, and the family unit as a whole. Please sign this petition today.