Scott imposes fees for Fla. public records copies

Florida Gov. Rick Scott is imposing fees on public records request to pay for staff time and the cost of making copies.

In announcing the fees Thursday, the new Republican governor cited a sharp increase in such requests since he took office in January.

Citizens making requests will be provided with cost estimates before the requests are answered.

Fees must be paid in advance based on the estimates. If actual costs are less the overpayment will be refunded. If the cost is more, the requester will have to pay the additional amount.

The fee will be waived if costs are under $5 if it's not cost-effective to collect it.