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 employees of the Judicial Qualifications Commission, as well as their spouses and children. This includes sensitive information such as home addresses, telephone numbers, dates of birth, and photographs. The bill also establishes provisions for legislative review and repeal of the exemption, which is set to expire on October 2, 2031, unless renewed by the Legislature. Additionally, it requires a written and notarized request from the individual or their employing agency to maintain the exempt status of this information.

Furthermore, the bill expands existing exemptions to include various categories of personnel, such as law enforcement officials and judicial employees, to protect their privacy and safety. The exemptions are subject to the Open Government Sunset Review Act, ensuring periodic evaluation of their necessity. The bill emphasizes the importance of these protections due to potential risks faced by commission employees from disgruntled litigants, including intimidation and harassment, and is scheduled to take effect on July 1, 2026.

Statutes affected:
S 144 Filed: 119.071