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 and former private investigators licensed by the Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, as well as their spouses and children. Specifically, it protects information such as home addresses, telephone numbers, dates of birth, photographs, and the names and locations of schools and daycare facilities attended by the children of these private investigators. This exemption is intended to safeguard the personal safety of private investigators and their families, who may face threats due to the sensitive nature of their work.

Additionally, the bill includes a provision for future legislative review and potential repeal of the exemption, set to expire on October 2, 2031, unless it is reviewed and reenacted by the Legislature. The bill emphasizes the necessity of protecting this information to balance public access to records with the need to ensure the safety and privacy of those providing critical investigative services. The act is set to take effect on July 1, 2026.

Statutes affected:
H 661 Filed: 119.071