House Bill 507 amends section 119.071 of the Florida Statutes to create an exemption from public records requirements for the personal identifying and location information of sexual assault counselors. This includes protections for their home addresses, telephone numbers, dates of birth, and photographs, which will no longer be subject to public disclosure. The bill also incorporates a provision for future legislative review, ensuring that the exemption remains under oversight and will automatically expire on October 2, 2030, unless renewed by the Legislature.
The bill allows for retroactive application, meaning that the protections will extend to information already collected. It includes a statement of public necessity to underscore the importance of safeguarding the personal information of those who support victims of sexual assault, as their safety could be compromised if such information were disclosed. The act is set to take effect on July 1, 2025, highlighting the Legislature's commitment to protecting the privacy of these professionals who face potential risks due to their work.
Statutes affected: H 507 Filed: 119.071