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HB 1203 — Public Records/Department of Corrections/Health Information
by Rep. Gonzalez (CS/SB 1526 by Rules Committee and Senator Bracy)
This summary is provided for information only and does not represent the opinion of any Senator, Senate Officer, or Senate Office.
Prepared by: Criminal Justice Committee (CJ)
The bill amends s. 945.10, F.S., to include protected health information of inmates and information related to HIV testing held by the Department of Corrections as records that are confidential and exempt from public disclosure in accordance with the federal Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA).
The bill aligns Florida law with the exemptions established in the HIPAA Privacy Rule by authorizing the release of protected health information and mental health, medical, and substance abuse records to other agencies, including law enforcement agencies, for legitimate state purposes.
The bill provides that the exemptions for protected health information of an inmate and identity of an inmate upon whom an HIV test has been performed are subject to the Open Government Sunset Review Act and stand repealed on October 2, 2022, unless reviewed and saved from repeal through reenactment by the Legislature.
The bill provides a statement of public necessity as required by the Florida Constitution.
If approved by the Governor, these provisions take effect on the same date that CS/CS/HB 1201 or similar legislation takes effect, if such legislation becomes a law.
Vote: Senate 37-0; House 115-0