This bill amends Florida Statutes sections 770.02 and 770.04, focusing on defamation, false light, and the unauthorized publication of names or likenesses. It introduces a requirement for newspapers, broadcasters, and periodicals to permanently remove any published articles or broadcasts from their websites within a specified timeframe to limit damages for defamation claims. Specifically, if a statement is found to be false, its continued presence online will be considered a new publication, which affects the statute of limitations and removes certain privileges for the publisher.

Additionally, the bill provides immunity for certain media personnel from defamation claims if they exercise due care to prevent the publication of false statements. It clarifies that the owner, licensee, or operator of a media outlet is not liable for defamatory statements made by others unless it can be proven that they failed to exercise due care. The effective date for this legislation is set for July 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
S 752 Filed: 770.02, 770.04
S 752 c1: 770.02, 770.04