The bill CS/HB 1205 proposes comprehensive amendments to the initiative petition process in Florida, introducing new requirements for petition circulators and sponsors. It mandates that petition circulators undergo a criminal background check, which must be funded by the sponsor or the applicant, and complete training on the petition gathering process. The bill also revises the definition of "petition circulator" to include those collecting signatures for compensation, while establishing stricter penalties for violations, including criminal penalties for falsifying information. Additionally, sponsors are required to submit a bond and a letter confirming the verification of signatures, and they must ensure that all individuals collecting signatures have not been convicted of felonies unless their voting rights have been restored.

Moreover, the bill enhances transparency and accountability by requiring voters to receive notice by mail regarding the status of their petition signatures, including the option to revoke their signature before a specified deadline. It also outlines the responsibilities of election supervisors in posting costs associated with signature verification and mandates the inclusion of new data points related to revoked signatures. The bill emphasizes the importance of public access to financial information regarding proposed constitutional amendments and prohibits the use of public funds for political advertisements related to these amendments. Overall, the bill aims to strengthen the integrity of the initiative process while ensuring that voters are well-informed about the implications of their decisions.

Statutes affected:
H 1205 Filed: 100.371, 99.097, 101.161, 104.187, 212.055
H 1205 c1: 15.21, 100.371, 102.121, 104.185, 104.186, 104.187, 212.055
H 1205 e1: 15.21, 97.021, 100.371, 102.121, 104.185, 104.186, 104.187, 212.055