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. This act prohibits local governments and state agencies from enacting election policies that could lead to voter suppression or discrimination against protected classes. The bill mandates the Florida Commission on Offender Review to create a database for tracking voting eligibility for individuals disqualified due to felony convictions (excluding murder or felony sexual offenses) and introduces provisions for same-day voter registration at early voting sites. Additionally, it establishes General Election Day as a paid holiday and enhances voter accessibility by ensuring election materials are available in multiple languages.

The bill also includes significant amendments to voter registration processes, particularly concerning the Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles and third-party voter registration organizations. It removes certain requirements for the DHSMV regarding voter registration information and introduces stricter penalties for late submissions by third-party organizations. Furthermore, the bill emphasizes the importance of protecting voting rights, particularly for individuals from protected classes, by establishing a framework for preclearance of election policies in jurisdictions with a history of voting rights violations. Overall, HB 1409 aims to streamline voter registration, enhance electoral participation, and ensure equitable access to the voting 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