The proposed bill aims to enhance the protection of personal information for public servants in Florida, including judges, law enforcement officers, and other officials, by allowing them to prevent data brokers from disclosing their personal data. The bill establishes a new section, 111.101, in the Florida Statutes, which defines key terms such as "covered person," "data broker," and "protected information." It allows covered persons or their authorized agents to submit written notices to data brokers to cease the disclosure of their protected information, which includes home addresses, phone numbers, and social security numbers. Upon receipt of such notice, data brokers are required to stop disclosing the specified information within ten business days.
Furthermore, the bill outlines enforcement mechanisms for violations, allowing covered persons to bring civil actions against data brokers that fail to comply. The legislation stipulates that data brokers found in violation may be liable for actual or liquidated damages, attorney fees, and other litigation costs. The bill emphasizes the importance of protecting public servants from threats and violence, which have reportedly increased due to the accessibility of their personal information through technology. The act is set to take effect on July 1, 2025.