Index
Florida Sunshine Law (Open Government)
Summary
Florida's 'Sunshine Law' is one of the most transparent open-government laws in the country, guaranteeing the public's right to attend government meetings and access public records.
Rights & Rules
- 01.Almost all meetings of state, county, and municipal boards or commissions MUST be open to the public.
- 02.Elected officials are legally forbidden from discussing public business with each other in private (e.g., two city council members cannot text each other about an upcoming vote).
- 03.Any member of the public can request access to public records (including emails, texts, and documents sent by government officials), and the government must provide them in a reasonable timeframe.
- 04.You do not have to give a reason or show an ID to request a public record in Florida.
Penalties
- 01.A public official who knowingly violates the Sunshine Law (like holding a secret meeting) commits a second-degree misdemeanor, can be fined, and can be removed from office by the Governor.
Verified Citations
Florida Constitution, Article I, Section 24 & Florida Statutes Chapter 286
Source"All meetings of any board or commission of any state agency or authority or of any agency or authority of any county, municipal corporation, or political subdivision... at which official acts are to be taken are declared to be public meetings open to the public at all times..."