Since then, the Florida legislature has allowed state agencies to hold copyrights from software they develop and charge license fees for its use, so long as public access to records is not compromised. Copyrighted software is not an issue when electronic records are stored in a generic format on magnetic tape, disks or other devices. The information in generic formats is readable by almost any computer that can run the tape or disk. Even obtaining copies of records in a generic format has been an issue for small news organizations unable to purchase the tapes or disks. To avoid the expense, many reporters go to agency offices to read documents.
Some agencies provide computer terminals for public use.
Others post printouts of electronic files for public inspection. The Internet is fast becoming a means to provide widespread public access. An ever-increasing number of states are placing legislative information on the Internet. Some are putting state statutes, court opinions and agency reports online, free of charge. Others require the requester to pay for access.