FL S0692

Expands the public records exemption in s. 943.059 to include criminal history records that are administratively sealed under s. 943.0586 (cases not filed, dismissed, nolle prosequi, or resulting in acquittal or not guilty verdicts).

Makes administratively sealed criminal history records confidential and exempt from public records requirements, restricting access to the subject, their attorney, criminal justice agencies, state judges, and specified licensing entities.

Allows individuals with administratively sealed records to lawfully deny or fail to acknowledge arrests, except in specified circumstances (employment with criminal justice agencies, criminal prosecutions, Bar admission, certain state employment, firearms purchases, and other licensing situations).

Subjects the exemption expansion to the Open Government Sunset Review Act with an automatic repeal date of October 2, 2023, unless the Legislature reenacts the provision.

Includes a public necessity statement finding that unvalidated criminal history records can prevent individuals from obtaining education and employment opportunities even when they were not found guilty of the offense.