This bill amends Section 539.003 of the Florida Statutes to expand the existing exemption from public records requirements for pawnbroker transaction records. The amendment specifically includes records delivered to the Department of Law Enforcement, making them confidential and exempt from certain public disclosure laws. The bill maintains that these records can only be used for official law enforcement purposes and allows for the disclosure of basic information, such as the names and addresses of the pawnbroker and customer, as well as descriptions of pawned property to the alleged owner.

Additionally, the bill introduces a provision for future legislative review and potential repeal of the exemption, stating that it will be subject to the Open Government Sunset Review Act and will stand repealed on October 2, 2031, unless reenacted. The Legislature emphasizes the necessity of this confidentiality to protect sensitive personal identifying information from pawn transactions, which could otherwise lead to identity theft. The act is contingent upon the passage of related legislation, SB 1582, during the same legislative session.

Statutes affected:
S 1792 Filed: 539.003