This bill amends section 119.0714 of the Florida Statutes to provide exemptions from public records requirements for certain petitions related to injunctions for protection against serious violence by a known person. Specifically, it establishes that petitions and their contents for such injunctions, as well as any information that could identify a petitioner or respondent, are exempt from public disclosure. The bill outlines that these exemptions apply to petitions dismissed without a hearing, at an ex parte hearing due to failure to state a claim, or for reasons related to the sufficiency of the petition itself. The bill also clarifies that the confidentiality of this information is crucial to protect the reputations and safety of individuals involved.

Additionally, the bill includes a statement of public necessity, emphasizing that the existence of unverified allegations in these petitions could harm the reputations of individuals named within them. It asserts that the release of identifying information before the respondent has been served could threaten the safety of those seeking protection and law enforcement personnel. The act is set to take effect contingent upon the adoption of related legislation in the same session.

Statutes affected:
S 210 Filed: 119.0714