The bill amends Florida Statutes regarding the process for filling vacancies in elective offices through special elections. It establishes that the Governor is required, rather than merely authorized, to call a special primary election and a special election under certain circumstances. The bill mandates that the Governor must set the dates for these elections within 14 days of the vacancy occurring, after consulting with the Secretary of State and the relevant supervisor of elections. The dates must be the earliest feasible options, ensuring a minimum of 8 weeks and a maximum of 12 weeks between elections. Additionally, if the Governor fails to set these dates, qualified electors can petition the circuit court to determine the election dates, which the court must expedite.

The bill also includes provisions that require special elections to be held no later than 126 days after a vacancy occurs, with exceptions allowing for a maximum of 175 days under certain conditions. It removes the previous authority for the Governor, President of the Senate, and Speaker of the House to waive specified timeframes if all parties agree. Furthermore, it stipulates that if only one candidate qualifies for a special election, that candidate is deemed elected at the end of the qualifying period. The bill is set to take effect on July 1, 2026.

Statutes affected:
H 597 Filed: 100.141