Florida Sunshine Manual Remains Unpublished in 2026

The annual guide for government transparency, issued since 1994, was not released this spring.

Updated on Oct. 16, 2026 in Government

Isometric editorial illustration of a thick stack of papers on a plain surface, representing government transparency guidance. — Florida Attorney General James Uthmeier has not published the 2026 Government in the Sunshine Manual, marking the first such pause since 1994. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

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Florida Attorney General James Uthmeier did not publish the 2026 edition of the Government in the Sunshine Manual. This marks the first time since 1994 that the annual transparency guide has not been released during the spring.

Why it matters

The manual serves as a critical resource for government compliance with public records and open meeting laws. Without a new edition, transparency advocates are concerned about the guidance provided to public officials.

The 2025 edition served as the 47th iteration of the guide, establishing a precedent of annual production that has continued since 1994.

The players

James Uthmeier

James Uthmeier is the Attorney General of Florida.

First Amendment Foundation

The First Amendment Foundation is a nonprofit organization dedicated to protecting government transparency and public access to records.

The details

The Florida First Amendment Foundation, which historically partners on the guide, has received no response to a records request for a 2026 draft. Attorney General James Uthmeier has not addressed inquiries regarding the status of the publication.

The Government in the Sunshine Manual began annual publication in 1994.
The 2026 edition failed to appear during the typical spring release window.
The First Amendment Foundation requested a draft manual four weeks prior to October 16, 2026.
The general election for Attorney General is scheduled for November 3, 2026.

Political Context

Opponents argue that failing to update the manual leaves local governments without necessary clarity on Florida's Sunshine Law requirements. Advocacy groups suggest this move undermines established norms of governmental accountability and openness.

Citizens and local officials may face greater ambiguity when navigating public records requests without the updated legal interpretations provided by the manual. The lack of an official guide could lead to inconsistent application of transparency standards across state agencies.

The takeaway

Transparency experts are now looking to lobby for legislation that would mandate the manual's annual publication. This effort aims to ensure that future guidance remains consistent regardless of changes in the Attorney General's office.