This bill amends Florida Statutes to revise the exemptions related to public records and meetings specifically concerning competitive solicitations by the Department of Transportation (DOT). It defines "competitive solicitation" and "team," and establishes that sealed bids, proposals, or replies received by the DOT are exempt from public records requirements until a specified time after an intended decision is announced or a formal protest is filed. Additionally, it provides exemptions for portions of meetings where negotiations or presentations related to competitive solicitations occur, as well as for recordings and records from these exempt meetings.

The bill also includes provisions for future legislative review and repeal of these exemptions, emphasizing the public necessity for such measures to ensure fair competition and protect sensitive information during the solicitation process. The exemptions will remain in effect until 72 hours after the DOT provides notice of an intended decision, or until the resolution of any formal protests. The act is set to take effect on July 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
S 458 Filed: 119.071