FL S0598

Exempts criminal history records of minors held by the Criminal Justice Information Program from public records requirements, making such information confidential under Florida's public records law and state constitution.

Applies the exemption to minors classified as serious or habitual juvenile offenders or committed to juvenile correctional facilities, with the exemption set to expire on October 2, 2023 unless reauthorized by the Legislature.

Removes exceptions that previously allowed public access to juvenile criminal history records for minors taken into custody, charged with, or found to have committed felonies, or transferred to adult court.

Establishes that juvenile criminal history information is only releasable to criminal justice agencies, the subject minor, their attorney, parents/guardians, and specified authorized entities for employment and licensing purposes.

Includes a statement of public necessity finding that protecting juvenile criminal history records from public disclosure serves rehabilitation goals and helps individuals reintegrate into society as productive citizens.