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 current and former personnel and commissioners of the Florida Commission on Human Relations. This includes protecting their names, home addresses, telephone numbers, dates of birth, photographs, and similar information for their spouses and children from public disclosure. The bill emphasizes the need for this exemption due to the heightened risk of harm these individuals may face due to their roles in handling discrimination and retaliation complaints. Additionally, the exemptions will be subject to the Open Government Sunset Review Act and will automatically repeal on October 2, 2030, unless reenacted by the Legislature.

Furthermore, the bill clarifies existing exemptions for various government personnel by refining definitions related to personal information. It establishes a process for maintaining the exempt status of this information, requiring a written and notarized request from the individuals concerned, and mandates compliance from county property appraisers and tax collectors to remove the exempted information from public records. The bill also allows for the release of protected information upon the death of a protected party, contingent on the submission of necessary documentation. The act is set to take effect on July 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
S 1560 Filed: 119.071