House Bill 373 amends Florida Statutes to enhance privacy protections for certain public officials by exempting specific personal information from public records requirements. The bill defines "appellate court" as the Florida Supreme Court or a district court of appeal and introduces exemptions for the home addresses, telephone numbers, dates of birth, and photographs of current and former county attorneys, city attorneys, and commissioners of the Florida Gaming Control Commission. It also extends these protections to current clerks and deputy clerks of the appellate and circuit courts, as well as their spouses and children. These exemptions are subject to the Open Government Sunset Review Act, with a repeal date set for October 2, 2029, for most officials, and October 2, 2030, for appellate and circuit court clerks unless reenacted by the Legislature.

Additionally, the bill outlines the process for maintaining the exempt status of this information, requiring a written and notarized request from the individual or their employing agency. It mandates that county property appraisers and tax collectors comply by removing the exempt information from public records. The bill also updates the definition of "telephone numbers" to align with existing statutes and includes a statement of public necessity. The act is set to take effect on July 1, 2025, emphasizing the need for these exemptions to protect the safety of public officials and their families.

Statutes affected:
H 373 Filed: 119.071, 744.21031