Bill > H1225

This bill modifies existing Florida law regarding grand jury testimony and materials to enhance transparency and accountability, particularly in cases involving sexual abuse and capital crimes, by allowing courts to disclose certain grand jury testimony and materials to further justice under specific circumstances, including requests from survivors or their immediate family members, and by establishing new requirements for the preservation of all grand jury materials. The bill defines terms like "sexual abuse" and "survivor" and mandates that the clerk of court must take possession of and preserve all materials presented or created during a grand jury proceeding, including recordings, documents, and electronic storage devices, prohibiting their disposal or destruction. It also requires the clerk to maintain a chain of custody list, store materials securely, and restrict access to authorized personnel, with documentation of all access. The state attorney and their employees are also required to preserve certain related materials. These preserved materials must be retained for 50 years after associated criminal proceedings conclude, unless a court orders otherwise. The Office of the State Courts Administrator will develop statewide rules for managing these materials and can conduct inspections to ensure compliance. The bill also makes intentional destruction or alteration of grand jury materials a felony, with investigations handled by the Department of Law Enforcement, and sets an effective date of July 1, 2026.

Justice

https://www.flsenate.gov/Session/Bill/2026/1225