Bill > S0410

This bill creates a new exemption to Florida's public records laws that protects personal identifying information for current and former private investigators licensed by the Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (DACS), as well as their spouses and children. Specifically, the bill exempts home addresses, telephone numbers, dates of birth, photographs, places of employment, and school/daycare locations from public disclosure requirements. The legislative rationale emphasizes the sensitive nature of private investigative work, which often involves uncovering fraud or locating missing persons, and the potential risks of retaliation or harassment if personal information becomes publicly accessible. The exemption is not permanent; it is subject to the Open Government Sunset Review Act and will automatically expire on October 2, 2031, unless the Legislature reenacts it. The bill argues that protecting this information balances public transparency with the personal safety of private investigators and their families, and it will apply retroactively. The exemption will take effect on July 1, 2026, providing time for implementation and review.

Government Affairs

Commerce and Tourism (Senate)

https://www.flsenate.gov/Session/Bill/2026/410