The Florida Sunshine Review spotlights the latest news on Florida open government laws and freedom of information (FOI) issues, with special emphasis on public records and open meetings developments. For similar Florida items plus mass media news, see the monthly Brechner Report from the Brechner Center for Freedom of Information at the University of Florida.

May 2, 2009

Lakeland Ledger, by John Chambliss and Jason Geary: Prosecutors charge Polk County School District lawyer with violating the state’s public records law …
Lakeland Ledger editorial: Decision to prosecute Polk County School Board lawyer for public records law violation sends an unmistakable message that the law means what it says …
Orlando Sentinel, by Ludmilla Lelis: Public officials can get into hot water by text messaging about public business outside the Sunshine Law …
St. Petersburg Times editorial: Keep our audio within the ears of the public …
Miami Herald editorial: Leon County jurors in Sansom case send an important message about power and secrecy in the Legislature …
Bradenton Herald, by Sylvia Lim: Manatee Community College president says he abided by Sunshine Law regarding a name change for the school …
Legal Newsline.com, by John O’Brien: Many waiting for Cretul’s call on Sunshine bill …
Ocala Star-Banner, by Suevon Lee: A Marion County grand jury will look at whether county commissioners violated the Sunshine Law regarding the county administrator’s hire …
Sarasota Herald-Tribune, by Kim Hackett: Venice council members wants his legal bills paid regarding open government lawsuit …
St. Pete Times/Miami Herald, by Steve Bousquet, Marc Caputo and Mary Ellen Klas: Grand jury calls on Florida Legislature to be more transparent in harsh criticism of state lawmaker practices …
Hernando Today, by Tony Marrero: Hernando school board members say their meals together do not include public business on the menu …
South Florida Sun Sentinel blog: Boynton Beach commissioner won’t use e-mail for fear of being “burned” …