The bill establishes a new section, 23.46, in the Florida Statutes, which exempts certain personal identifying information provided by participants to the Hope Florida Office and Hope Navigators from public records requirements. This exemption aims to protect the privacy of individuals involved in the Hope Florida program, which assists residents in vulnerable situations. The bill outlines specific conditions under which access to this confidential information may be granted, such as to employees of participating state agencies for reporting purposes, or at the direction of the Governor or the Hope Florida partner network. It also mandates that any individual who receives access to this information must maintain its confidential status.
Additionally, the bill imposes criminal penalties for willful violations of the confidentiality provisions, classifying such violations as a third-degree felony. The legislation includes a provision for future legislative review and potential repeal of the exemption, set to expire on October 2, 2030, unless reenacted. A statement of public necessity is provided, emphasizing the importance of keeping participant data confidential to ensure the effective administration of the program and to encourage individuals to seek assistance without fear of exposure. The act is contingent upon the passage of related legislation, HB 1327, within the same legislative session.