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Bill Summary · SB 380

Summary of SB 380 - Legal Notices

Bill Information:
- Bill Number: SB 380
- Title: Legal Notices
- Status: Filed
- Introduced: November 04, 2025
- Sponsor: Senator Trumbull
- Classification: Bill
- Subject Areas: Civil practice and procedure, evidence, planning and development, public officers, employees, and records, taxation and finance.

Purpose and Intent

SB 380 aims to modernize the process of publishing legal notices by allowing governmental agencies in Florida to utilize their own websites or the county's official website for this purpose. The bill seeks to enhance accessibility and reduce costs associated with traditional newspaper publications for legal notices.

Key Provisions

  1. Revised Definitions:

    • Updates the definitions of "governmental agency" and "publicly accessible website" to clarify which entities can publish legal notices online.
  2. Publication Options:

    • Authorizes governmental agencies to publish legally required advertisements and notices on their own websites or the county's website, provided that the cost is less than traditional newspaper publication.
  3. Searchable Format Requirement:

    • All legal notices published online must be in a searchable format and must indicate the date of first publication.
  4. Reenactment of Related Statutes:

    • The bill reenacts several sections of Florida Statutes that reference legal notices, ensuring they align with the new provisions of section 50.0311. This includes:
      • Notice of special or local legislation.
      • Publication requirements for judicial sales.
      • Self-authentication of legal notices.
  5. Cost Considerations:

    • The bill emphasizes cost-effectiveness by allowing agencies to choose the less expensive option for publishing legal notices.

Impact

  • Governmental Agencies: Local governments, school boards, and other public entities will benefit from reduced publication costs and increased flexibility in how they disseminate legal information.
  • Public Access: The bill aims to improve public access to legal notices by making them available online, potentially increasing transparency and awareness of governmental actions.
  • Legal Proceedings: The changes may streamline legal processes by ensuring that notices are published in a timely and accessible manner.

Procedural Aspects

  • The bill was filed on November 04, 2025, and is currently in the legislative process. Further actions and discussions will determine its progression through the Florida Senate.

Conclusion

SB 380 represents a significant shift in how legal notices are published in Florida, promoting the use of digital platforms to enhance accessibility and reduce costs for governmental agencies. As the bill moves through the legislative process, its implications for transparency and efficiency in public communication will be closely monitored.

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

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