FL S0390

Public agency contracts for services must include a statement displaying the custodian of records' contact information in at least 14-point boldfaced type.

Contractors must keep and maintain public records, provide copies or allow inspection upon request from the public agency's custodian, and transfer records to the public agency at no cost upon contract completion.

Public records requests relating to contractor services must be made directly to the public agency, which must immediately notify the contractor if it does not possess the requested records.

Contractors who fail to provide public records within a reasonable time face fines up to $500 for noncriminal infractions or first-degree misdemeanor penalties for willful and knowing violations.

Courts must award reasonable costs of enforcement and attorney fees against contractors who unlawfully refuse public records requests, provided notice was given at least 8 business days before filing a civil action; contractors have 8 business days to comply after notice to avoid liability.