House Bill 1203 aims to enhance the security and integrity of the electoral process in Florida by amending various sections of election law. The bill introduces new definitions, such as "absentee vote processing worker" and "other election system," and requires the Secretary of State to organize independent procedural audits to ensure compliance with election laws. It mandates that supervisors of elections maintain specific records, conduct audits, and ensure public observation of ballot canvassing. Additionally, the bill outlines requirements for poll watchers, absentee ballot processing, and the handling of election materials, while introducing penalties for election-related offenses, thereby strengthening the electoral framework in Florida.

The bill also focuses on absentee ballot processing, establishing strict chain of custody requirements and emphasizing physical security at counting locations. It mandates bipartisan verification during various stages of ballot handling and introduces new regulations for the presence of watchers at polling places. Key provisions include the requirement for hand-counted audits of ballots, detailed procedures for documenting ballot transport, and the necessity for signature verification on absentee ballot request forms. Overall, HB 1203 seeks to bolster public confidence in the electoral process through increased oversight, accountability, and transparency, with an effective date set for July 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
H 1203 Filed: 101.21, 101.545, 101.5614, 101.6103, 101.6104, 101.65, 101.655, 101.69, 101.6923, 102.014, 104.21, 104.30