This bill amends Section 741.465 of the Florida Statutes to enhance the protection of victims of dating violence who participate in the Address Confidentiality Program for Victims of Domestic and Dating Violence. It establishes that certain identifying information, including addresses, telephone numbers, and social security numbers of these victims, held by the Office of the Attorney General, as well as voter registration and voting records maintained by the supervisor of elections and the Department of State, are exempt from public records requirements. The bill also clarifies the definition of "address" and specifies that this exemption applies retroactively and to records held before, on, or after the effective date of the exemptions.

Additionally, the bill includes a public necessity statement emphasizing the need for these protections to ensure the safety and security of victims of dating violence. It highlights that the release of such information could significantly threaten their physical safety and that the potential harm outweighs any public benefit from disclosure. The bill is subject to the Open Government Sunset Review Act and will be repealed on October 2, 2031, unless reviewed and reenacted by the Legislature. The act will take effect concurrently with related legislation, SB 296, if passed in the same session.

Statutes affected:
S 298 c1: 741.465