Bill > S0490

This bill amends Florida law to expand an existing exemption from public records requirements for email addresses collected by the Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (DHSMV). Currently, the exemption only applied to email addresses collected for specific renewal notices, but the bill broadens the scope to include email addresses collected for any method of notification, including those related to vessel registrations. The bill recognizes that email addresses are sensitive personal information that could be used for identity theft, consumer scams, or unwanted solicitations if made publicly available. By keeping these email addresses exempt from public records disclosure, the legislation aims to protect individuals' privacy and reduce potential risks. The exemption is subject to future legislative review and will automatically be repealed on October 2, 2031, unless the Legislature reenacts it. The bill's effectiveness is contingent on the passage of a related bill (SB 488) that expands the department's ability to use email for various notifications beyond just renewal notices.

Budget and Finance

https://www.flsenate.gov/Session/Bill/2026/490