This bill amends several sections of Florida Statutes related to elections, specifically addressing the qualifications and requirements for write-in candidates. It introduces a new requirement for write-in candidates to pay certain fees, which was previously not mandated. Additionally, it creates a new section, 100.012, which clarifies that write-in candidates will not be considered opponents in general elections. The bill also includes provisions for the Department of State to establish rules for the security of voting systems, explicitly prohibiting any connection to the Internet.

Furthermore, the bill allows counties the option to count ballots by hand at the precinct level, rather than being required to use electronic or electromechanical voting systems. This change aims to provide flexibility in how votes are counted while ensuring the integrity of the election process. The effective date for these changes is set for July 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
H 51 Filed: 99.061, 99.092, 105.031, 101.5604