Bill > H0507

This bill amends Florida's public records law to create a new exemption that protects the personal identifying and location information (such as home addresses, telephone numbers, dates of birth, and photographs) of sexual assault counselors from public disclosure. Specifically, the bill adds a provision to section 119.071 of the Florida Statutes that shields sexual assault counselors' personal details from public records requests. The rationale for this exemption, as explained in the bill's statement of necessity, is to protect these counselors from potential harassment, threats, or retaliation by individuals connected to the cases they work on. The exemption is subject to the Open Government Sunset Review Act, meaning it will automatically expire on October 2, 2030, unless the Legislature votes to continue it. The bill highlights the critical role sexual assault counselors play in supporting crime victims and argues that the potential harm to these professionals from releasing their personal information outweighs any public benefit of disclosure. The exemption will take effect on July 1, 2025, and applies to personal information in existing and future records.

Justice

https://www.flsenate.gov/Session/Bill/2025/507