The bill amends Florida Statutes regarding the process for filling vacancies in elective offices through special elections. It establishes that the Governor is required to call a special primary election and a special election under specific circumstances, rather than having the option to do so. 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, ensuring that the dates are the earliest feasible. Additionally, it introduces provisions allowing qualified electors to petition the circuit court for a judicial determination of election dates if the Governor fails to act within the specified timeframe.

Further revisions include the requirement that special elections to fill certain vacancies must occur no later than the election for which a resigning officer seeks to qualify. The bill also clarifies that if only one candidate qualifies for a special election, that candidate is deemed elected at the end of the qualifying period. The amendments aim to streamline the election process and ensure timely representation for voters in the event of a vacancy. The effective date for these changes is set for July 1, 2026.

Statutes affected:
H 597 Filed: 100.141