Bill > S0856

This bill amends Florida's public records law to create a new exemption protecting 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 sexual assault counselors to the existing list of professionals whose personal information is shielded from public records requests. The legislation recognizes that these counselors often work closely with victims and law enforcement, and their personal information could be exposed through police reports or discovery documents, potentially putting them at risk of harassment, threats, or retaliation. 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 includes a detailed statement of public necessity, arguing that the potential harm to sexual assault counselors outweighs any public benefit from disclosing their personal information. The exemption will take effect on July 1, 2025, and applies to information held by agencies before, on, or after the effective date.

https://www.flsenate.gov/Session/Bill/2025/856