This bill establishes a new section, 70.90, in the Florida Statutes, allowing specified governmental entities to hold private meetings with their attorneys to discuss claims related to private property rights under the Bert J. Harris, Jr., Private Property Rights Protection Act. The bill outlines the conditions under which these closed meetings can occur, including the requirement for public notice, the necessity of commencing the session in an open meeting, and the obligation to transcribe the entire session. The transcripts of these meetings will become public records either upon the settlement of a claim or after the statute of limitations expires without litigation.

Additionally, the bill includes a statement of public necessity, asserting that confidentiality in these meetings is essential for effective negotiation and strategy development regarding presuit claims. It emphasizes that similar meetings concerning ongoing litigation are already confidential, and making these presuit discussions public would undermine the goal of fostering quick settlements while minimizing attorney fees. The bill is set to take effect on July 1, 2026, and is subject to review and potential repeal by the Legislature by October 2, 2031.

Statutes affected:
S 332 Filed: 286.011