By Associated Press
Published: May 7, 2008

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. (AP) - Gov. Charlie Crist has signed a bill that gives a 9-year-old disabled girl $1.2 million for injuries she sustained due to the state’s negligence.

Marissa Amora was admitted to Miami Children’s Hospital in 2000 and workers reported concerns about her injuries to Department of Children & Families.

But the department failed to complete its investigation and a few weeks later Marissa was beaten into a coma by her biological mother’s boyfriend.

Marissa is permanently disabled and now lives in Jackson County with her adoptive parents.

She could receive more than $18 million as part of the state’s settlement, but the additional money would have to be provided by the Legislature in the future.

(Copyright 2008 by The Associated Press.  All Rights Reserved.)