The bill amends Section 97.0291 of the Florida Statutes to allow specified high school students who volunteer to assist poll workers to be exempt from certain prohibitions regarding the solicitation and acceptance of private funds for election-related expenses. Specifically, it clarifies that state and local officials responsible for conducting elections cannot solicit or accept donations for election administration expenses, but it introduces provisions that permit high school students who are registered or preregistered to vote to volunteer for community service hours.

The new language specifies that these students can receive community service hours that count towards high school graduation requirements and scholarship program participation. The bill also maintains the prohibition on agencies and officials from using private funds for election-related expenses while allowing for the donation of space for polling locations. The act is set to take effect on July 1, 2026.

Statutes affected:
H 461 Filed: 97.0291
H 461 c1: 97.0291