This bill amends Florida Statutes to allow candidates to pay their filing fees using a debit card linked to their campaign account, rather than solely through a check. Specifically, it modifies section 99.061 to include provisions for candidates to qualify for nomination or election by using a debit card, while also establishing a new paragraph that grants candidates the standing to challenge the qualifications of other candidates. The bill outlines the procedures for such challenges, including the requirement for immediate hearings and the consequences of a court ruling that disqualifies a candidate from appearing on the ballot.

Additionally, the bill revises section 106.11 to clarify the conditions under which debit cards are treated as bank checks for campaign expenditures. It specifies that debit cards must be issued from the designated campaign depository and outlines the necessary documentation for transactions made with these cards. The bill is set to take effect on July 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
S 982 Filed: 99.061, 106.11
S 982 c1: 99.061, 106.11