House Bill 1203 seeks to enhance the security, integrity, and transparency of the electoral process in Florida by implementing a series of new requirements and amendments to existing election laws. Key provisions include the establishment of independent procedural audits by the Secretary of State, the definition of "absentee vote processing worker," and the introduction of minimum security standards for voting procedures. The bill mandates that absentee ballots from different sources must not be mixed until their chain of custody is validated, and it requires supervisors to maintain separate post office billing permits for outgoing and returned ballots. Additionally, the bill emphasizes the importance of physical security at absentee vote counting locations, requiring electronic access controls and video surveillance, and introduces penalties for election-related offenses.

Furthermore, the bill expands the roles and responsibilities of election officials and poll watchers, including new identification requirements for voters and stricter procedures for handling vote-by-mail ballots. It mandates that voters provide optional contact information on their ballots and outlines the procedures for returning ballots, including secure ballot intake stations monitored by election officials. The bill also introduces a post-certification procedural audit for larger counties and allows for audits in smaller counties upon request. Overall, HB 1203 aims to strengthen oversight, accountability, and public confidence in the electoral process through enhanced security measures and transparency initiatives.

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