This bill amends section 943.059 of the Florida Statutes to expand the existing public records exemption to include sealed criminal history records of individuals adjudicated guilty of certain nonviolent misdemeanor offenses. The new language specifies that these records will be confidential and exempt from public disclosure, allowing access only to the individual, their attorney, and certain criminal justice agencies for specific purposes. Additionally, the bill includes a provision for future review and potential repeal of this exemption, stating that if it is not reenacted by the Legislature by October 2, 2031, the law will revert to its previous form as of June 30, 2026.

The bill also includes a statement of public necessity, emphasizing the importance of keeping these sealed records confidential to help individuals reintegrate into society without facing barriers to employment and housing. The intent is to promote economic stability and reduce recidivism by ensuring that individuals with sealed records are not hindered by public access to their past offenses. The act is contingent upon the passage of related legislation, SB 810, and will take effect simultaneously with that bill if it is adopted.