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 employees, board members, and volunteers of crime stoppers organizations. This includes protections for home addresses, telephone numbers, dates of birth, and photographs, which will not be subject to public disclosure. The bill also extends these protections to the spouses and children of these individuals, safeguarding their names, home addresses, telephone numbers, dates of birth, places of employment, and the names and locations of schools and daycare facilities attended by their children. The exemption is subject to the Open Government Sunset Review Act and will remain in effect until October 2, 2030, unless the Legislature reviews and reenacts it.

Additionally, the bill includes a statement of public necessity, highlighting the importance of protecting the personal information of those involved in crime stoppers organizations due to the potential risks they face from individuals involved in criminal activities. The Legislature recognizes that disclosing such information could endanger their safety, as these individuals play a vital role in assisting law enforcement. The act is set to take effect on July 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
S 710 Filed: 119.071
S 710 c1: 119.071