The bill amends section 905.27 of the Florida Statutes and creates a new section, 905.275, to enhance the preservation and disclosure of grand jury testimony and materials. It provides definitions for terms such as "immediate family member," "sexual abuse," and "survivor," and authorizes courts to disclose grand jury materials under specific circumstances to further justice. The bill mandates that the clerk of court take possession of and preserve all grand jury materials, prohibits their disposal or destruction, and requires the maintenance of a chain of custody list. It also outlines the types of materials that must be preserved and establishes penalties for intentional destruction or alteration of these materials.

Additionally, the bill specifies that preserved grand jury materials must be retained for 50 years after the conclusion of any related criminal proceedings unless otherwise ordered by a court. It empowers the Office of the State Courts Administrator to adopt rules for the management and storage of these materials and allows for inspections to ensure compliance. The bill aims to improve transparency and accountability in cases involving sexual abuse and capital crimes, thereby enhancing public trust in the judicial system.

Statutes affected:
H 1225 Filed: 905.27