FL H1297

Adds subsection (8) to section 68.083, Florida Statutes, creating a public records exemption for complaints and information held by the Department of Legal Affairs during investigations of false claims against the state under section 68.082.

Makes exempted investigation materials confidential except when disclosed to law enforcement or other administrative agencies performing official duties, and removes confidentiality protections once the investigation is completed.

Defines investigation completion as: (1) under section 68.083(1) when the department files its own action or closes investigation without filing, or (2) under section 68.083(2) upon unsealing of a qui tam action or its voluntary dismissal prior to unsealing.

Exemption is subject to the Open Government Sunset Review Act and will stand repealed on October 2, 2018, unless the Legislature reenacts it.

Effective date is contingent on the same date that HB 935 or similar legislation takes effect, if adopted in the same legislative session and becomes law.