House Bill 1409 proposes comprehensive reforms to Florida's election laws, including the election of the Secretary of State and the establishment of the Florida Voting Rights Act (FLVRA). The bill mandates the Florida Commission on Offender Review to create a publicly accessible database for tracking voter eligibility, particularly for individuals disqualified due to felony convictions, while introducing new voter registration processes such as same-day registration at early voting sites. It also emphasizes protections against voter suppression and discrimination, requiring preclearance for certain election policies affecting protected classes and enhancing voter accessibility through language assistance and clear election materials.

Additionally, the bill modifies existing procedures related to vote-by-mail ballots and in-person voting, ensuring that voters can still cast their votes in person even if they have requested a mail-in ballot. It establishes secure ballot intake stations and clarifies the monitoring requirements for these stations. The bill also introduces provisions to streamline voter registration processes, including the role of the Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles, and enhances accountability for third-party voter registration organizations. Overall, HB 1409 aims to strengthen voter participation, protect voting rights, and ensure equitable access to the electoral process in Florida.

Statutes affected:
H 1409 Filed: 20.10, 97.021, 97.022, 97.0291, 97.057, 97.0575, 98.045, 101.65, 101.69, 104.42