Does Governor Scott’s New Limitations on the Press Conflict with Florida’s Sunshine Laws?
Members of Florida’s journalism community have made complaints against the recently inaugurated governor. Reporters claim that Gov. Rick Scott’s administration is limiting the press’ access to both the governor and to events that have been traditionally viewed as open.
One reason the governor’s actions may be immediately noticeable is the fact that Florida has enjoyed a long tradition of openness in government, dating back to 1909 with passage of what is known as the “Public Records Law.” Then, in 1967, Florida’s Government-in-the-Sunshine Law (the “Sunshine Law”) was enacted. The Sunshine law took what was defined as a public record under the 1909 law, and established the basic right of access to most meetings of boards, commissions, and other governing bodies of state and local governmental agencies or authorities.
The Florida state legislature and the Attorney General’s Office have consistently sought to protect its Government-in-the-Sunshine laws. Therefore, this may be the first time in decades that a government event has occurred to which press members were not invited.
If you have questions regarding Florida’s Sunshine laws as they apply to your business, please contact one of the business attorneys with Wood, Atter & Wolf, P.A.
