Bill > H0549

This bill amends Florida's public records law to create new privacy protections for petitions related to injunctions for protection against "serious violence by a known person". Specifically, the bill makes confidential certain court documents and identifying information for petitions that are dismissed without a hearing or for procedural reasons. The bill aims to protect the reputation of individuals named in such dismissed petitions, recognizing that unverified allegations could be defamatory. It also seeks to protect the physical safety of petitioners, respondents, and law enforcement by keeping identifying information confidential until the respondent is personally served with the petition. The confidentiality provisions apply to the petition contents, any identifying information about the petitioner or respondent, affidavits, hearing notices, and temporary injunctions. The bill includes a legislative finding that these privacy protections are necessary to prevent potential harm and unwarranted reputation damage. The effective date of the bill is contingent on the passage of related legislation (HB 547).

Justice

https://www.flsenate.gov/Session/Bill/2026/549