The bill amends Florida Statutes regarding candidate filing fees and the methods of payment. It allows candidates to pay their filing fees using a debit card linked to their campaign account, in addition to the previously accepted method of a check. The timeframe for candidates to pay the filing fee after a returned check has been revised, granting them 48 hours from notification to make the payment, rather than until the end of the qualifying period. Additionally, the bill introduces a mechanism for candidates to challenge the compliance of other candidates with the filing requirements, specifying the process and timeline for such challenges.
Furthermore, the bill modifies the requirements for receipts related to debit card transactions made by candidates and political committees. It stipulates that signatures on receipts are only required if there is a designated space for them. The effective date for the implementation of these changes is set for July 1, 2025. Overall, the bill aims to modernize the candidate filing process and enhance the transparency and accountability of campaign financing.
Statutes affected: H 635 Filed: 99.061, 106.11