This 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 private investigators licensed by the Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, as well as their spouses and children. Specifically, the bill protects home addresses, telephone numbers, dates of birth, photographs, and places of employment of these individuals, along with the names and locations of schools and daycare facilities attended by their children. The exemption is subject to the Open Government Sunset Review Act and will be repealed on October 2, 2031, unless it is reviewed and saved from repeal by the Legislature.
The bill includes a statement of public necessity, emphasizing that private investigators often engage in sensitive work that may expose them and their families to potential threats or harm. By exempting their personal information from public access, the bill aims to balance the public's right to access records with the need to protect the safety and privacy of those providing critical investigative services. The act is set to take effect on July 1, 2026.
Statutes affected: S 410 Filed: 119.071