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 includes sensitive information such as home addresses, telephone numbers, dates of birth, and photographs. The bill also establishes provisions for legislative review and repeal of the exemption, along with retroactive application, and includes a statement of public necessity. The exemptions aim to protect these individuals from potential harassment and intimidation, particularly given the commission's role in investigating judicial misconduct.

Furthermore, the bill outlines the process for maintaining the exempt status of this information, requiring a written and notarized request from the individuals concerned. It mandates that county property appraisers and tax collectors comply with such requests by removing the exempt information from public records. The bill emphasizes the importance of these protections due to the risks associated with public disclosure of personal information, citing instances of intimidation faced by commission employees. The new provisions will be subject to the Open Government Sunset Review Act and will remain in effect until October 2, 2030, unless reenacted by the Legislature, with the act set to take effect on July 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
S 302 Filed: 119.071