The bill amends section 119.071 of the Florida Statutes to create an exemption from public records requirements for the personal identifying and location information of current and former employees of the Judicial Qualifications Commission, as well as their spouses and children. This exemption includes home addresses, telephone numbers, dates of birth, and photographs, aimed at protecting these individuals from potential harassment and intimidation by dissatisfied litigants involved in judicial misconduct investigations. The bill also establishes provisions for legislative review and repeal of the exemption, allowing for retroactive application, and includes a statement of public necessity.

Furthermore, the exemption is subject to the Open Government Sunset Review Act, meaning it will be reviewed and could be repealed after a specified period unless reenacted by the Legislature. The bill outlines the process for maintaining the exempt status of this information, requiring a written and notarized request from the individuals concerned, and mandates that county property appraisers and tax collectors comply by removing the exempted information from public records. The act is set to take effect on July 1, 2025, and will automatically repeal on October 2, 2030, unless the Legislature takes action to reenact it.

Statutes affected:
S 302 Filed: 119.071