This bill proposes comprehensive reforms to Florida's election laws, including the election of the Secretary of State rather than an appointment by the Governor, and the establishment of the Florida Voting Rights Act (FLVRA) to prevent voter suppression and ensure equitable access to the electoral process for protected class members. The FLVRA mandates local governments and state agencies to avoid election policies that create disparities in voter participation and requires them to provide language assistance for voters as needed. Additionally, the bill establishes a commission to oversee compliance with the FLVRA and introduces a database to assist individuals with felony convictions in determining their eligibility for voting rights restoration.

The legislation also includes significant amendments to voter registration and voting processes, such as allowing same-day registration at early voting sites, streamlining the registration process through the Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles, and enhancing the integrity of vote-by-mail ballots. Key provisions include the requirement for secure ballot intake stations, updated procedures for canvassing ballots, and the introduction of penalties for third-party voter registration organizations that fail to comply with new regulations. Overall, the bill aims to enhance voter access, protect voting rights, and ensure the integrity of the electoral process in Florida.

Statutes affected:
S 1582 Filed: 20.10, 97.021, 97.022, 97.0291, 97.057, 97.0575, 98.045, 101.019, 101.65, 101.69, 104.42