The bill CS/CS/HB 1535 amends various sections of Florida Statutes to improve emergency management procedures, particularly concerning elections and tenant rights during emergencies. It introduces new requirements for landlords to notify tenants about the safe retrieval of their belongings after property damage. Additionally, the bill removes existing provisions for an elections emergency contingency plan and establishes a new framework allowing county supervisors of elections to seek approval from the Secretary of State for actions during a declared state of emergency, such as changing early voting locations. The bill also mandates the creation of a statewide election emergency contingency plan and requires local election officials to develop their own emergency plans in consultation with local emergency management officials.

Moreover, the bill enhances the state's comprehensive emergency management program by requiring the development of a state emergency management plan that includes components for evacuation, sheltering, and post-disaster recovery. It introduces new requirements for registering individuals with special needs during emergencies and mandates annual reporting on emergency-related expenditures. The bill also establishes a Hazard Mitigation Grant Program to allocate federal funds for disaster mitigation projects and imposes restrictions on local governments in impacted areas regarding construction moratoriums for one year following a hurricane. Overall, the legislation aims to bolster Florida's preparedness and response capabilities for various disaster scenarios while ensuring the safety and welfare of vulnerable populations.

Statutes affected:
H 1535 Filed: 83.63, 101.733
H 1535 c1: 83.63, 101.733, 215.559, 250.375, 252.3611, 252.365, 252.373, 400.063, 403.7071
H 1535 c2: 83.63, 101.733, 250.375, 252.3611, 252.365, 252.373, 400.063, 403.7071, 553.902