Florida legislators are considering whether to keep secret searches for university and college presidents.

A House panel approved a bill Thursday that would keep confidential the name of anyone applying to become head of a college or university.

The bill sponsored by Rep. Bob Rommel, a Naples Republican, would also keep confidential the names of people applying for other top positions such as dean or provost.

The legislation (HB 351) heads next to the full House. A similar bill has not moved in the Senate.

If the measure becomes law, the names of finalists for top jobs would be made public 21 days before there is a final vote to hire someone.

Rommel and other supporters contend the change is needed because Florida isn't attracting quality candidates for university jobs.

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