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 emergency department physicians, as well as their spouses and certain children. Specifically, it protects home addresses, personal telephone numbers, and dates of birth of these individuals, along with the names, addresses, and other personal details of their spouses and children under 26 years of age. The exemption is retroactive and applies to information held by agencies before, on, or after July 1, 2026. Agencies that are custodians of this exempt information must maintain its status if a written and notarized request is submitted by the individual seeking the exemption.

Additionally, the bill includes a statement of public necessity, highlighting the risks faced by emergency department physicians due to their work, which can expose them to violence and harassment. The Legislature recognizes that disclosing their personal information could lead to physical or emotional harm, thus justifying the need for this exemption. The exemption is subject to review and will be repealed on October 2, 2031, unless it is reenacted by the Legislature. The act is set to take effect on July 1, 2026.

Statutes affected:
H 251 Filed: 119.071