The bill amends section 943.0595 of the Florida Statutes regarding the automatic sealing of criminal history records. It eliminates certain circumstances under which these records can be automatically sealed, specifically removing the requirement that no indictment, information, or other charging document was filed in the case. The bill retains eligibility for automatic sealing if a not guilty verdict or judgment of acquittal is rendered, but clarifies that individuals found not guilty by reason of insanity are not eligible.

Additionally, the bill introduces new provisions that allow prosecutors to access automatically sealed criminal history records for specific purposes, such as determining appropriate plea offers, accessing evidence for prosecution, or assessing eligibility for diversion programs. This change aims to balance the confidentiality of sealed records with the needs of the legal system. The act is set to take effect on July 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
S 1214 Filed: 943.0595