This bill amends Florida Statutes to allow candidates for nomination or election to pay their filing fees using a debit card linked to their campaign account, rather than solely through a check. It introduces new provisions for standing to challenge a candidate's qualifications, outlining the procedures for such challenges, including immediate hearings and the requirement for a court order to disqualify a candidate from appearing on the ballot if they do not meet the qualifications. Additionally, the bill revises the conditions under which debit cards are treated as bank checks for campaign expenditures.

Specifically, the bill adds a new paragraph to section 99.061, granting candidates the right to challenge the qualifications of other candidates in circuit court, and establishes a timeline for filing complaints and responses. It also amends section 106.11 to clarify the conditions under which debit cards can be used for campaign expenditures, ensuring that they are issued in the name of authorized individuals and that proper documentation is maintained. 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