This bill amends section 39.301 of the Florida Statutes to establish an exemption from public records requirements for recordings of interviews conducted during protective investigations by the Department of Children and Families. The new legal language specifies that these recordings are confidential and exempt from public disclosure under certain statutes and constitutional provisions. It allows for the release of such recordings only to individuals conducting investigations who must maintain confidentiality, or to the caregiver of the child involved in a judicial proceeding, unless otherwise ordered by a court. Additionally, the bill mandates that these recordings be retained for at least five years.

The legislation includes a statement of public necessity, emphasizing the importance of protecting the privacy and identity of victims and witnesses of child abuse, abandonment, and neglect. It argues that maintaining confidentiality is crucial for creating a safe environment for traumatized children and for the integrity of investigations. The bill also incorporates a provision for future legislative review, stating that the exemption will be subject to the Open Government Sunset Review Act and will be repealed on October 2, 2031, unless it is reviewed and reenacted by the Legislature. The act will take effect concurrently with SB 1144 or similar legislation, should it be adopted in the same legislative session.