Capitol Publishing, through its representative, James A. Donato, President,; Petitioner does not qualify as a free newspaper of general circulation as set forth in section 316.066(5)(b) & (e), Florida Statutes, due to its status as an internet-based ...

 

DEPARTMENT OF HIGHWAY SAFETY AND MOTOR VEHICLES

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN THAT the Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles Office of General Counsel has declined to rule on the petition for declaratory statement filed by Capitol Publishing, through its representative, James A. Donato, President, on September 4, 2007. The following is a summary of the agency’s declination of the petition:

Petitioner does not qualify as a free newspaper of general circulation as set forth in Section 316.066(5)(b), (e), Florida Statutes, due to its status as an internet-based publication, the lack of legitimate media status as contemplated by the statute, and its history showing a purpose of publishing names and other personal identifying information concerning parties to motor vehicle crashes. The Petitioner may not immediately receive copies of crash reports.

A copy of the Order Declining of the Petition for Declaratory Statement may be obtained by contacting: Judson Chapman General Counsel Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles, 2900 Apalachee Parkway, A-432, Tallahassee, FL 32399-0504.