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Bill

HB 397

Public Records/Crime Stoppers Organizations

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Kevin Chambliss

Florida bill proposing public records exemptions for Crime Stoppers organizations died in committee without passage, leaving disclosure requirements unchanged.

Died in State Affairs Committee
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Bill Summary · HB 397

Legislative bill overview

HB 397 would modify Florida's public records laws to create exemptions for Crime Stoppers organizations, allowing them to withhold certain information from public disclosure. The bill died in committee during the 2025 legislative session without advancing to a vote.

Why is this important

Public records access is fundamental to government transparency and accountability. Any exemptions to disclosure laws affect citizens' ability to monitor public agencies and understand how law enforcement operates. The bill's failure means Florida's current public records framework remains unchanged regarding Crime Stoppers information.

Potential points of contention

  • Balancing transparency vs. operational security: Crime Stoppers argue exemptions protect informant identities and undercover operations, while transparency advocates worry exemptions enable unaccountable policing practices
  • Scope of exemption: Unclear which specific records would qualify—financial records, informant data, investigative materials—and how broadly organizations could shield information
  • Private organization status: Crime Stoppers are typically non-profit entities, raising questions about whether private organizations should receive public records exemptions when they work with law enforcement

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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