The Florida Senate

100.011  Opening and closing of polls, all elections; expenses.

100.021  Notice of general election.

100.025  Citizens residing overseas; notice of elections.

100.031  General election.

100.041  Officers chosen at general election.

100.051  Candidate's name on general election ballot.

100.061  First primary election.

100.071  Grouping of candidates on primary ballots.

100.081  Conducting primary elections; nomination of county commissioners.

100.091  Second primary election.

100.096  Special election at second primary election.

100.101  Special elections and special primary elections.

100.102  Cost of special elections and special primary elections to be incurred by the state.

100.111  Filling vacancy.

100.141  Notice of special election to fill any vacancy in office or nomination.

100.151  Special elections called by local governing bodies, notice.

100.161  Filling vacancy of United States Senators.

100.181  Determination of person elected.

100.191  General election laws applicable to special elections; returns.

100.201  Referendum required before issuing bonds.

100.211  Power to call bond referendum; notice required.

100.221  General election laws to govern bond referenda.

100.241  Freeholder voting; election; penalties for ineligible persons who vote as freeholders.

100.261  Holding bond referenda with other elections.

100.271  Inspectors, clerk, duties; return and canvass of referendum recorded.

100.281  Approval to issue bonds.

100.291  Record results of election prima facie evidence.

100.301  Refunding bonds excluded.

100.311  Local law governs bond election held by municipalities.

100.321  Test suit.

100.331  Referendum for defeated bond issue.

100.341  Bond referendum ballot.

100.342  Notice of special election or referendum.

100.351  Referendum election; certificate of results to Department of State.

100.3605  Conduct of municipal elections.

100.361  Municipal recall.

100.371  Initiatives; procedure for placement on ballot.

100.011  Opening and closing of polls, all elections; expenses.--

(1)  The polls shall be open at the voting places at 7:00 a.m., on the day of the election, and shall be kept open until 7:00 p.m., of the same day, and the time shall be regulated by the customary time in standard use in the county seat of the locality. The inspectors shall make public proclamation of the opening and closing of the polls. During the election and canvass of the votes, the ballot box shall not be concealed.

(2)  The time of opening and closing of the polls shall be observed in all elections held in this state, including municipal and school elections.

(3)  The expenses of holding all elections for county and state offices necessarily incurred shall be paid out of the treasury of the county or state, as the case may be, in the same manner and by the same officers as in general elections.

(4)(a)  The provisions of any special law to the contrary notwithstanding, the expenses of holding a special district or community development district election, or the district's proportionate share of regular election costs, as the case may be, shall be paid out of the district's treasury and in the same manner as in general elections. This subsection applies to any district, whether created by or pursuant to special or general law, which is a special district as defined in s. 200.001(8)(c) or a community development district as defined in s. 190.003(6).

(b)  The provisions of any special law to the contrary notwithstanding, the supervisor of elections may impose an interest penalty on any amount due and owing to him or her from a special district or community development district if payment is not made within 30 days from receipt of the bill or within 10 working days of the required time authorized by interlocal agreement. The rate of such interest shall be the rate established pursuant to s. 55.03.

(c)  The provisions of any special law to the contrary notwithstanding, all independent and dependent special district elections, with the exception of community development district elections, shall be conducted in accordance with the requirements of ss. 189.405 and 189.4051.

History.--s. 23, ch. 3879, 1889; RS 177; s. 27, ch. 4328, 1895; GS 209; s. 8, ch. 6469, 1913; RGS 253, 306; CGL 309, 362; ss. 1, 2, ch. 20409, 1941; ss. 1, 2, ch. 22739, 1945; s. 4, ch. 25384, 1949; s. 4, ch. 26870, 1951; s. 12, ch. 77-175; s. 6, ch. 87-363; s. 53, ch. 89-169; s. 543, ch. 95-147; s. 4, ch. 96-327.

Note.--Former ss. 99.07, 102.08.

100.021  Notice of general election.--The Department of State shall, in any year in which a general election is held, make out a notice stating what offices and vacancies are to be filled at the general election in the state, and in each county and district thereof. During the 30 days prior to the beginning of qualifying, the Department of State shall have the notice published two times in a newspaper of general circulation in each county; and, in counties in which there is no newspaper of general circulation, it shall send to the sheriff a notice of the offices and vacancies to be filled at such general election by the qualified voters of the sheriff's county or any district thereof, and the sheriff shall have at least five copies of the notice posted in conspicuous places in the county.

History.--s. 5, ch. 3879, 1889; RS 159; s. 6, ch. 4328, 1895; s. 4, ch. 4537, 1897; GS 176; RGS 220; CGL 255; s. 1, ch. 25383, 1949; s. 4, ch. 26870, 1951; ss. 10, 35, ch. 69-106; s. 12, ch. 77-175; s. 3, ch. 83-251; s. 544, ch. 95-147.

Note.--Former s. 98.06.

100.025  Citizens residing overseas; notice of elections.--A citizen of this state who is residing overseas may notify the supervisor of elections in the county where he or she is registered of his or her overseas address; and, thereafter, the supervisor shall notify such citizen at least 90 days prior to regular primary and general elections and when possible prior to any special election so that such citizen may follow the procedures for absentee voting provided by law.

History.--s. 1, ch. 67-454; s. 8, ch. 69-280; s. 3, ch. 77-175; s. 16, ch. 81-304; s. 4, ch. 89-338; s. 16, ch. 94-224; s. 1389, ch. 95-147.

Note.--Former s. 97.0631.

100.031  General election.--A general election shall be held in each county on the first Tuesday after the first Monday in November of each even-numbered year to choose a successor to each elective federal, state, county, and district officer whose term will expire before the next general election and, except as provided in the State Constitution, to fill each vacancy in elective office for the unexpired portion of the term.

History.--s. 2, ch. 3879, 1889; RS 155; s. 2, ch. 4328, 1895; s. 1, ch. 4537, 1897; GS 171; RGS 216; CGL 251; s. 4, ch. 26870, 1951; s. 12, ch. 77-175.

Note.--Former s. 98.04.

100.041  Officers chosen at general election.--

(1)  State senators shall be elected for terms of 4 years, those from odd-numbered districts in each year the number of which is a multiple of 4 and those from even-numbered districts in each even-numbered year the number of which is not a multiple of 4. Members of the House of Representatives shall be elected for terms of 2 years in each even-numbered year. In each county, a clerk of the circuit court, sheriff, superintendent of schools, property appraiser, and tax collector shall be chosen by the qualified electors at the general election in each year the number of which is a multiple of 4. The Governor and the administrative officers of the executive branch of the state shall be elected for terms of 4 years in each even-numbered year the number of which is not a multiple of 4. The terms of state offices other than the terms of members of the Legislature shall begin on the first Tuesday after the first Monday in January after said election. The term of office of each member of the Legislature shall begin upon election.

(2)(a)  Each county commissioner from an odd-numbered district shall be elected at the general election in each year the number of which is a multiple of 4, for a 4-year term commencing on the second Tuesday following such election, and each county commissioner from an even-numbered district shall be elected at the general election in each even-numbered year the number of which is not a multiple of 4, for a 4-year term commencing on the second Tuesday following such election.

(b)  Notwithstanding paragraph (a), the governing board of a charter county may provide by ordinance, to be approved by referendum, that the terms of its members shall commence on a date later than the second Tuesday following general elections, but in any case the date of commencement shall be uniform for all members and shall be no later than the first Tuesday after the first Monday in January following each member's election.

(3)(a)  School board members shall be elected at a general election for terms of 4 years. The term of office of a school board member and of a superintendent of schools shall begin on the second Tuesday following the general election in which such member or superintendent is elected.

(b)  In each school district which has five school board members, the terms shall be arranged so that three members are elected at one general election and two members elected at the next ensuing general election.

(4)  The term of office of each county and each district officer not otherwise provided by law shall commence on the first Tuesday after the first Monday in January following his or her election.

History.--s. 3, ch. 3879, 1889; RS 156; s. 3, ch. 4328, 1895; s. 2, ch. 4537, 1897; GS 172; s. 10, ch. 7838, 1919; RGS 217; CGL 252; s. 4, ch. 26870, 1951; s. 15, ch. 28156, 1953; s. 1, ch. 59-140; s. 1, ch. 63-479; s. 1, ch. 67-98; s. 1, ch. 67-510; s. 11, ch. 69-216; s. 1, ch. 69-300; (4) formerly s. 14, Art. XVIII of the Constitution of 1885, as amended; converted to statutory law by s. 10, Art. XII of the Constitution as revised in 1968; s. 1, ch. 73-47; s. 18, ch. 73-334; s. 1, ch. 77-102; s. 12, ch. 77-175; s. 1, ch. 78-321; s. 21, ch. 79-164; s. 14, ch. 85-226; s. 1, ch. 88-85; s. 14, ch. 89-338; s. 545, ch. 95-147; s. 11, ch. 98-129.

Note.--Former s. 98.05.

100.051  Candidate's name on general election ballot.--The supervisor of elections of each county shall print on ballots to be used in the county at the next general election the names of candidates who have been nominated by a political party, other than a minor political party, and the candidates who have otherwise obtained a position on the general election ballot in compliance with the requirements of this code.

History.--s. 53, ch. 6469, 1913; RGS 357; CGL 414; s. 4, ch. 26870, 1951; s. 3, ch. 70-269; s. 1, ch. 70-439; s. 12, ch. 77-175.

Note.--Former s. 102.50.

100.061  First primary election.--In each year in which a general election is held, a first primary election for nomination of candidates of political parties shall be held on the Tuesday 9 weeks prior to the general election. Each candidate receiving a majority of the votes cast in each contest in the first primary election shall be declared nominated for such office. A second primary election shall be held as provided by s. 100.091 in every contest in which a candidate does not receive a majority.

History.--s. 5, ch. 6469, 1913; RGS 303; CGL 359; s. 2, ch. 13761, 1929; s. 1, ch. 17897, 1937; s. 7, ch. 26329, 1949; s. 4, ch. 26870, 1951; s. 1, ch. 57-166; s. 1, ch. 59-4; s. 1, ch. 69-1745; s. 4, ch. 83-251.

Note.--Former s. 102.05.

100.071  Grouping of candidates on primary ballots.--

(1)(a)  Where two or more similar offices are to be filled in the same election, the names of candidates shall be placed or printed upon the ballot or voting machine in groups or districts; that is, if two or more members of the Legislature or two or more members of a governing board are to be elected from the same geographical area, then the candidates' names shall be placed or printed on the ballot or voting machines in groups or districts, as the case may be.

(b)  The name of the office shall be printed over each numbered group or district, and each numbered group or district shall be clearly separated from the next numbered group or district, the same as in the case of single offices, so as to emphasize the necessity of voting for one candidate in each numbered group or district.

(2)  Each nominee of a political party chosen in the primaries shall appear on the general election ballot in the same numbered group or district as on the primary election ballot.

History.--ss. 1, 2, ch. 23957, 1947; s. 10, ch. 24994, 1948; s. 1, ch. 25051, 1949; s. 4, ch. 26870, 1951; s. 1, ch. 29937, 1955; s. 1, ch. 66-2; s. 12, ch. 77-175.

Note.--Former s. 99.58.

100.081  Conducting primary elections; nomination of county commissioners.--The primary elections shall provide for the nomination of county commissioners by the qualified electors of such county at the time and place set for voting on other county officers.

History.--s. 63, ch. 6469, 1913; s. 10, ch. 6874, 1915; RGS 362; CGL 419; s. 18, ch. 13761, 1929; CGL 1936 Supp. 424(2); s. 4, ch. 26870, 1951; s. 11, ch. 69-216; s. 12, ch. 77-175.

Note.--Former s. 102.55.

100.091  Second primary election.--

(1)  In each year in which a general election is held, a second primary election for nomination of candidates of political parties where nominations were not made in the first primary election shall be held on the Tuesday 5 weeks prior to the general election.

(2)  The names of the candidates placing first and second in the first primary election shall be placed on the ballot in the second primary election for each contest in which no candidate receives a majority of the votes cast in the first primary election, subject to the following exceptions:

(a)  In any contest in which there is a tie for first place in the first primary election, only the names of the candidates so tying shall be placed on the ballot in the second primary election.

(b)  In any contest in which there is a tie for second place in the first primary election and the candidate placing first did not receive a majority of the votes cast, the name of the candidate placing first and the names of the candidates tying for second shall be placed on the ballot in the second primary election.

(3)  The candidate who receives the highest number of votes cast for the office in the second primary election shall be declared nominated. In case two or more persons receive an equal and highest number of votes for the same office in the second primary, such persons shall draw lots to determine who will receive the nomination.

History.--s. 50, ch. 6469, 1913; RGS 354; CGL 411; s. 14, ch. 13761, 1929; s. 2, ch. 17897, 1937; s. 4, ch. 19663, 1939; s. 4, ch. 26870, 1951; s. 2, ch. 57-166; s. 2, ch. 59-4; s. 1, ch. 65-240; s. 2, ch. 69-1745; s. 1, ch. 75-246; ss. 12, 66, ch. 77-175; s. 5, ch. 83-251.

Note.--Former s. 102.48.

100.096  Special election at second primary election.--Notwithstanding the provision of any local law, a special election which is required by local law to be held on the third Tuesday after the first primary election provided for in s. 100.061 may be held in conjunction with the second primary election on the date provided by general law for the second primary election.

History.--s. 5, ch. 78-188.

100.101  Special elections and special primary elections.--Except as provided in s. 100.111(2), a special election or special primary election shall be held in the following cases:

(1)  If no person has been elected at a general election to fill an office which was required to be filled by election at such general election.

(2)  If a vacancy occurs in the office of state senator or member of the state house of representatives.

(3)  If it is necessary to elect presidential electors, by reason of the offices of President and Vice President both having become vacant.

(4)  If a vacancy occurs in the office of member from Florida of the House of Representatives of Congress.

(5)  If a vacancy occurs in nomination.

History.--s. 4, ch. 3879, 1889; RS 158; s. 5, ch. 4328, 1895; GS 175; RGS 219; CGL 254; s. 4, ch. 26870, 1951; s. 12, ch. 77-175; s. 3, ch. 83-15.

Note.--Former s. 98.08.

100.102  Cost of special elections and special primary elections to be incurred by the state.--Whenever any special election or special primary election is held as required in s. 100.101, each county incurring expenses resulting from such special election or special primary election shall be reimbursed by the state. Reimbursement shall be based upon actual expenses as filed by the supervisor of elections with the county governing body. The Department of State shall verify the expenses of each special election and each special primary election and authorize payment for reimbursement to each county affected.

History.--s. 2, ch. 74-120; s. 12, ch. 77-175.

100.111  Filling vacancy.--

(1)(a)  If any vacancy occurs in any office which is required to be filled pursuant to s. 1(f), Art. IV of the State Constitution and the remainder of the term of such office is 28 months or longer, then at the next general election a person shall be elected to fill the unexpired portion of such term, commencing on the first Tuesday after the first Monday following such general election.

(b)  If such a vacancy occurs prior to the first day set by law for qualifying for election to office at such general election, any person seeking nomination or election to the unexpired portion of the term shall qualify within the time prescribed by law for qualifying for other offices to be filled by election at such general election.

(c)  If such a vacancy occurs prior to the first primary but on or after the first day set by law for qualifying, the Secretary of State shall set dates for qualifying for the unexpired portion of the term of such office. Any person seeking nomination or election to the unexpired portion of the term shall qualify within the time set by the Secretary of State. If time does not permit party nominations to be made in conjunction with the first and second primary elections, the Governor may call a special primary election, and, if necessary, a second special primary election, to select party nominees for the unexpired portion of such term.

(2)(a)  If, in any state or county office required to be filled by election, a vacancy occurs during an election year by reason of the incumbent having qualified as a candidate for federal office pursuant to s. 99.061, no special election is required. Any person seeking nomination or election to the office so vacated shall qualify within the time prescribed by s. 99.061 for qualifying for state or county offices to be filled by election.

(b)  If such a vacancy occurs in an election year other than the one immediately preceding expiration of the present term, the Secretary of State shall notify the supervisor of elections in each county served by the office that a vacancy has been created. Such notice shall be provided to the supervisor of elections not later than the close of the first day set for qualifying for state or county office. The supervisor shall provide public notice of the vacancy in any manner the Secretary of State deems appropriate.

(3)  Whenever there is a vacancy for which a special election is required pursuant to s. 100.101(1)-(4), the Governor, after consultation with the Secretary of State, shall fix the date of a special first primary election, a special second primary election, and a special election. Nominees of political parties other than minor political parties shall be chosen under the primary laws of this state in the special primary elections to become candidates in the special election. Prior to setting the special election dates, the Governor shall consider any upcoming elections in the jurisdiction where the special election will be held. The dates fixed by the Governor shall be specific days certain and shall not be established by the happening of a condition or stated in the alternative. The dates fixed shall provide a minimum of 2 weeks between each election. In the event a vacancy occurs in the office of state senator or member of the House of Representatives when the Legislature is in regular legislative session, the minimum times prescribed by this subsection may be waived upon concurrence of the Governor, the Speaker of the House of Representatives, and the President of the Senate. If a vacancy occurs in the office of state senator and no session of the Legislature is scheduled to be held prior to the next general election, the Governor may fix the dates for any special primary and for the special election to coincide with the dates of the first and second primary and general election. If a vacancy in office occurs in any district in the state Senate or House of Representatives or in any congressional district, and no session of the Legislature, or session of Congress if the vacancy is in a congressional district, is scheduled to be held during the unexpired portion of the term, the Governor is not required to call a special election to fill such vacancy.

(a)  The dates for candidates to qualify in such special election or special primary election shall be fixed by the Department of State, and candidates shall qualify not later than noon of the last day so fixed. The dates fixed for qualifying shall allow a minimum of 14 days between the last day of qualifying and the special first primary election.

(b)  The filing of campaign expense statements by candidates in such special elections or special primaries and by committees making contributions or expenditures to influence the results of such special primaries or special elections shall be not later than such dates as shall be fixed by the Department of State, and in fixing such dates the Department of State shall take into consideration and be governed by the practical time limitations.

(c)  The dates for a candidate to qualify by the alternative method in such special primary or special election shall be fixed by the Department of State. In fixing such dates the Department of State shall take into consideration and be governed by the practical time limitations. Any candidate seeking to qualify by the alternative method in a special primary election shall obtain 25 percent of the signatures required by s. 99.095, s. 99.0955, or s. 99.096, as applicable.

(d)  The qualifying fees and party assessments of such candidates as may qualify shall be the same as collected for the same office at the last previous primary for that office. The party assessment shall be paid to the appropriate executive committee of the political party to which the candidate belongs.

(e)  Each county canvassing board shall make as speedy a return of the result of such special elections and primaries as time will permit, and the Elections Canvassing Commission likewise shall make as speedy a canvass and declaration of the nominees as time will permit.

(4)(a)  In the event that death, resignation, withdrawal, removal, or any other cause or event should cause a party to have a vacancy in nomination which leaves no candidate for an office from such party, the Governor shall, after conferring with the Secretary of State, call a special primary election and, if necessary, a second special primary election to select for such office a nominee of such political party. The dates on which candidates may qualify for such special primary election shall be fixed by the Department of State, and the candidates shall qualify no later than noon of the last day so fixed. The filing of campaign expense statements by candidates in special primaries shall not be later than such dates as shall be fixed by the Department of State. In fixing such dates, the Department of State shall take into consideration and be governed by the practical time limitations. The qualifying fees and party assessment of such candidates as may qualify shall be the same as collected for the same office at the last previous primary for that office. Each county canvassing board shall make as speedy a return of the results of such primaries as time will permit, and the Elections Canvassing Commission shall likewise make as speedy a canvass and declaration of the nominees as time will permit.

(b)  If the vacancy in nomination occurs later than September 15, or if the vacancy in nomination occurs with respect to a candidate of a minor political party which has obtained a position on the ballot, no special primary election shall be held and the Department of State shall notify the chair of the appropriate state, district, or county political party executive committee of such party; and, within 7 days, the chair shall call a meeting of his or her executive committee to consider designation of a nominee to fill the vacancy. The name of any person so designated shall be submitted to the Department of State within 14 days of notice to the chair in order that the person designated may have his or her name printed or otherwise placed on the ballot of the ensuing general election, but in no event shall the supervisor of elections be required to place on a ballot a name submitted less than 21 days prior to the election. If the vacancy occurs less than 21 days prior to the election, the person designated by the political party will replace the former party nominee even though the former party nominee's name will be on the ballot. Any ballots cast for the former party nominee will be counted for the person designated by the political party to replace the former party nominee. If there is no opposition to the party nominee, the person designated by the political party to replace the former party nominee will be elected to office at the general election. For purposes of this paragraph, the term "district political party executive committee" means the members of the state executive committee of a political party from those counties comprising the area involving a district office.

(c)  When, under the circumstances set forth in the preceding paragraph, vacancies in nomination are required to be filled by committee nominations, such vacancies shall be filled by party rule. In any instance in which a nominee is selected by a committee to fill a vacancy in nomination, such nominee shall pay the same filing fee and take the same oath as the nominee would have taken had he or she regularly qualified for election to such office.

(d)  Any person who, at the close of qualifying as prescribed in ss. 99.061 and 105.031, was qualified for nomination or election to or retention in a public office to be filled at the ensuing general election is prohibited from qualifying as a candidate to fill a vacancy in nomination for any other office to be filled at that general election, even if such person has withdrawn or been eliminated as a candidate for the original office sought. However, this paragraph does not apply to a candidate for the office of Lieutenant Governor who applies to fill a vacancy in nomination for the office of Governor on the same ticket or to a person who has withdrawn or been eliminated as a candidate and who is subsequently designated as a candidate for Lieutenant Governor under s. 99.063.

(5)  In the event of unforeseeable circumstances not contemplated in these general election laws concerning the calling and holding of special primary elections and special elections resulting from court order or other unpredictable circumstances, the Department of State shall have the authority to provide for the conduct of orderly elections.

(6)  In the event that a vacancy occurs which leaves less than 4 weeks for a candidate seeking to qualify by the alternative method to gather signatures for ballot position, the number of signatures required for ballot placement shall be 25 percent of the number of signatures required by s. 99.095, s. 99.0955, or s. 99.096, whichever is applicable.

History.--s. 4, ch. 26870, 1951; s. 16, ch. 28156, 1953; s. 1, ch. 29938, 1955; s. 1, ch. 57-91; s. 1, ch. 59-139; s. 2, ch. 65-240; ss. 10, 35, ch. 69-106; s. 1, ch. 73-191; s. 1, ch. 74-120; s. 12, ch. 77-175; s. 30, ch. 79-400; s. 4, ch. 83-15; s. 1, ch. 83-149; s. 15, ch. 89-338; s. 3, ch. 90-229; s. 13, ch. 90-315; s. 546, ch. 95-147; s. 1, ch. 95-197; s. 5, ch. 99-140; s. 12, ch. 99-318.

100.141  Notice of special election to fill any vacancy in office or nomination.--

(1)  Whenever a special election is required to fill any vacancy in office or nomination, the Governor, after consultation with the Secretary of State, shall issue an order declaring on what day the election shall be held and deliver the order to the Department of State.

(2)  The Department of State shall prepare a notice stating what offices and vacancies are to be filled in the special election, the date set for each special primary election and the special election, the dates fixed for qualifying for office, the dates fixed for qualifying by the alternative method, and the dates fixed for filing campaign expense statements.

(3)  The department shall deliver a copy of such notice to the supervisor of elections of each county in which the special election is to be held. The supervisor shall have the notice published two times in a newspaper of general circulation in the county at least 10 days prior to the first day set for qualifying for office. If such a newspaper is not published within the period set forth, the supervisor shall post at least five copies of the notice in conspicuous places in the county not less than 10 days prior to the first date set for qualifying.

History.--s. 6, ch. 3879, 1889; RS 160; s. 7, ch. 4328, 1895; GS 177; RGS 221; CGL 256; s. 3, ch. 25383, 1949; s. 1, ch. 26329, 1949; s. 4, ch. 26870, 1951; ss. 10, 35, ch. 69-106; s. 12, ch. 77-175; s. 14, ch. 90-315; s. 13, ch. 99-318.

Note.--Former s. 98.10.

100.151  Special elections called by local governing bodies, notice.--County commissioners or the governing authority of a municipality shall not call any special election until notice is given to the supervisor of elections and his or her consent obtained as to a date when the registration books can be available.

History.--s. 4, ch. 26870, 1951; s. 2, ch. 65-60; s. 16, ch. 89-338; s. 547, ch. 95-147.

100.161  Filling vacancy of United States Senators.--Should a vacancy happen in the representation of this state in the Senate of the United States, the Governor shall issue a writ of election to fill such vacancy at the next general election; and the Governor may make a temporary appointment until the vacancy is filled by election.

History.--s. 4, ch. 26870, 1951; s. 17, ch. 28156, 1953; s. 12, ch. 77-175.

100.181  Determination of person elected.--The person receiving the highest number of votes cast in a general or special election for an office shall be elected to the office. In case two or more persons receive an equal and highest number of votes for the same office, such persons shall draw lots to determine who shall be elected to the office.

History.--s. 7, ch. 20872, 1941; s. 4, ch. 26329, 1949; s. 4, ch. 26870, 1951; s. 24, ch. 77-104; s. 12, ch. 77-175.

Note.--Former s. 98.49.

100.191  General election laws applicable to special elections; returns.--All laws that are applicable to general elections are applicable to special elections or special primary elections to fill a vacancy in office or nomination, except that the canvass of returns by the county canvassing board of each county in which a special election is held shall be made on the day following the election, and the certificate of the result of the canvass shall be immediately forwarded to the Department of State. The Elections Canvassing Commission shall immediately, upon receipt of returns from the county in which a special election is held, proceed to canvass the returns and determine and declare the result thereof.

History.--s. 6, ch. 20872, 1941; s. 4, ch. 26870, 1951; ss. 10, 35, ch. 69-106; s. 12, ch. 77-175.

Note.--Former s. 98.48.

100.201  Referendum required before issuing bonds.--Whenever any county, district, or municipality is by law given power to issue bonds which are required to be approved by referendum, such bonds shall be issued only after the same have been approved by the majority of votes cast by those persons eligible to vote in such referendum. The election costs of such referendum shall be paid in whole or in part, as the case may be, out of the county, district, or municipal treasury.

History.--s. 1, ch. 14715, 1931; CGL 1936 Supp. 457(1); s. 4, ch. 26870, 1951; s. 3, ch. 69-377; s. 12, ch. 77-175; s. 7, ch. 87-363.

Note.--Former s. 103.01.

100.211  Power to call bond referendum; notice required.--The board of county commissioners or the governing authority of any district or municipality may call a bond referendum under this code. In the event any referendum is called to decide whether a majority of the electors participating are in favor of the issuance of bonds in the county, district, or municipality, the board of county commissioners, or the governing authority of the municipality or district, shall by resolution order the bond referendum to be held in the county, district, or municipality and shall give notice of the election in the manner prescribed by s. 100.342.

History.--s. 2, ch. 14715, 1931; CGL 1936 Supp. 457(2); s. 4, ch. 26870, 1951; s. 4, ch. 69-377; s. 12, ch. 77-175.

Note.--Former s. 103.02.

100.221  General election laws to govern bond referenda.--The laws governing the holding of general elections are applicable to bond referenda, except as provided in ss. 100.201-100.351. The places for voting in a bond referendum shall be the same as the places for voting in general elections, when a bond referendum is held in the county or district; but when a bond referendum is held in a municipality, the polling places shall be the same as in other municipal elections.

History.--s. 8, ch. 14715, 1931; CGL 1936 Supp. 457(8); s. 4, ch. 26870, 1951; s. 12, ch. 77-175.

Note.--Former s. 103.08.

100.241  Freeholder voting; election; penalties for ineligible persons who vote as freeholders.--

(1)  In any election or referendum in which only electors who are freeholders are qualified to vote, the regular registration books covering the precincts located within the geographical area in which the election or referendum is to be held shall be used.

(2)  Qualification and registration of electors participating in such an election or referendum shall be the same as prescribed for voting in other elections under this code, and, in addition, each such elector shall submit proof by affidavit made before an inspector that the elector is a freeholder who is a qualified elector residing in the county, district, or municipality in which the election or referendum is to be held.

(3)  Each registered elector who makes a sworn affidavit of ownership to the inspectors, giving either a legal description, address, or location of property in the elector's name which is not wholly exempt from taxation shall be entitled to vote in the election or referendum and shall be considered a freeholder.

(4)  The actual costs of conducting such freeholders' election or referendum shall be paid by the county, district, or municipality requiring the same to be held.

(5)  It is unlawful for any person to vote in any county, district, or other election or referendum which is limited to a vote of the electors who are freeholders, unless such person is a freeholder and a qualified elector. Any person who violates the provisions of this subsection is guilty of a misdemeanor of the first degree, punishable as provided in s. 775.082 or s. 775.083.

History.--s. 1, ch. 9294, 1923; CGL 250; ss. 4, 6, 14, ch. 14715, 1931; CGL 1936 Supp. 457(4), (6), (14); s. 7, ch. 22858, 1945; s. 4, ch. 26870, 1951; s. 1, ch. 61-332; s. 5, ch. 65-240; s. 5, ch. 69-377; s. 12, ch. 77-175; s. 2, ch. 91-224; s. 548, ch. 95-147.

Note.--Former ss. 98.03, 103.04, 103.06, 103.14.

100.261  Holding bond referenda with other elections.--Whenever any bond referendum is called, it shall be lawful for any county, district, or municipality to hold such bond referendum on the day of any state, county, or municipal primary or general election, or on the day of any election of such county, district, or municipality for any purpose other than the purpose of voting on such bonds. If such bond referendum is held concurrently with a regularly scheduled election, the county, district, or municipality shall pay only its pro rata share of election costs directly related to the bond referendum. However, nothing in this section shall prohibit the holding of a special or separate bond referendum.

History.--s. 1, ch. 22545, 1945; s. 4, ch. 26870, 1951; s. 19, ch. 28156, 1953; s. 12, ch. 77-175; s. 8, ch. 87-363.

Note.--Former s. 103.21.

100.271  Inspectors, clerk, duties; return and canvass of referendum recorded.--In any bond referendum, unless the referendum is held in connection with a regular or special state, county, or municipal election, at least two inspectors and one clerk shall be appointed and qualified, as in cases of general elections, and they shall canvass the vote cast and make due returns of same without delay. Any bond referendum held in a municipality shall be returned to and canvassed by the governing authority which called the referendum, but in any county or district the returns shall be made to the board of county commissioners. The board of county commissioners or, in the case of a municipality, the governing authority thereof, shall canvass the returns and declare the result and have same recorded in the minutes of the board of county commissioners, or, in the case of a district, the certificate of declaration of result shall be recorded in the minutes of the governing authority of such district, or, in the case of a municipality, the result shall be recorded in the minutes of the governing authority of the municipality. If any bond referendum is held in conjunction with any other election, however, the officials responsible for the canvass of such election shall also canvass the returns of the referendum and certify the same to the proper governing body.

History.--s. 10, ch. 14715, 1931; CGL 1936 Supp. 457(10); s. 4, ch. 26870, 1951; s. 12, ch. 77-175.

Note.--Former s. 103.10.

100.281  Approval to issue bonds.--Should a majority of the votes cast in a bond referendum be in favor of the issuance of bonds, then the issuance of said bonds is deemed authorized in accordance with s. 12, Art. VII of the State Constitution. In the event less than a majority of those voting on the issue voted in favor of the issuance of the proposed bonds, then the issuance of those specified bonds shall be deemed to have failed of approval and it is unlawful to issue or attempt to issue said bonds.

History.--s. 12, ch. 14715, 1931; CGL 1936 Supp. 457(12); s. 4, ch. 26870, 1951; s. 15, ch. 69-216; s. 7, ch. 69-377; s. 12, ch. 77-175.

Note.--Former s. 103.12.

100.291  Record results of election prima facie evidence.--Whenever any bond referendum is called and held, and the minutes have been recorded as provided in s. 100.271 and also a separate finding as to the total number of votes cast in the referendum, both in favor and against the approval of bonds, then a duly certified copy of the finding shall be admissible as prima facie evidence in all state courts of the truth, including the regularity, of the call, conduct, and holding of the referendum at the time and place specified.

History.--s. 17, ch. 14715, 1931; CGL 1936 Supp. 457(15); s. 4, ch. 26870, 1951; s. 12, ch. 77-175.

Note.--Former s. 103.17.

100.301  Refunding bonds excluded.--Sections 100.201-100.351 shall not apply to refunding bonds, and wherever the word "bond" or "bonds" is used in these sections it shall be construed to exclude refunding bonds; but if the statute, ordinance, or resolution under which refunding bonds are authorized or are to be issued requires a referendum to determine whether such refunding bonds shall be issued, the referendum may be held as provided by ss. 100.201-100.351.

History.--s. 211/2, ch. 14715, 1931; CGL 1936 Supp. 457(19); s. 4, ch. 26870, 1951; s. 12, ch. 77-175.

Note.--Former s. 103.20.

100.311  Local law governs bond election held by municipalities.--No section of this code controlling or regulating bond referenda shall be deemed to repeal or modify any provision contained in any local law relating to bond referenda held by any municipality, but ss. 100.201-100.351 shall be deemed additional and supplementary to any such local law.

History.--s. 21, ch. 14715, 1931; CGL 1936 Supp. 457(18); s. 4, ch. 26870, 1951; s. 12, ch. 77-175.

Note.--Former s. 103.19.

100.321  Test suit.--Any taxpayer of the county, district, or municipality wherein bonds are declared to have been authorized, shall have the right to test the legality of the referendum and of the declaration of the result thereof, by an action in the circuit court of the county in which the referendum was held. The action shall be brought against the county commissioners in the case of a county or district referendum, or against the governing authority of the municipality in the case of a municipal referendum. In case any such referendum or the declaration of results thereof shall be adjudged to be illegal and void in any such suit, the judgment shall have the effect of nullifying the referendum. No suit shall be brought to test the validity of any bond referendum unless the suit shall be instituted within 60 days after the declaration of the results of the referendum. In the event proceedings shall be filed in any court to validate the bonds, which have been voted for, then any such taxpayer shall be bound to intervene in such validation suit and contest the validity of the holding of the referendum or the declaration of the results thereof, in which event the exclusive jurisdiction to determine the legality of such referendum or the declaration of the results thereof shall be vested in the court hearing and determining said validation proceedings. If said bonds in the validation proceedings shall be held valid on final hearing or an intervention by the taxpayer shall be interposed and held not to have been sustained, then the judgment in said validation proceedings shall be final and conclusive as to the legality and validity of the referendum and of the declaration of the results thereof, and no separate suit to test the same shall be thereafter permissible.

History.--s. 18, ch. 14715, 1931; CGL 1936 Supp. 457(16); s. 4, ch. 26870, 1951; s. 12, ch. 77-175.

Note.--Former s. 103.18.

100.331  Referendum for defeated bond issue.--If any bond referendum is called and held for approving the issuance of bonds for a particular purpose and such referendum does not result in the approval of the bonds, then no other referendum for the approval of bonds for the same purpose shall be called for at least 6 months.

History.--s. 13, ch. 14715, 1931; CGL 1936 Supp. 457 (13); s. 4, ch. 26870, 1951; s. 12, ch. 77-175.

Note.--Former s. 103.13.

100.341  Bond referendum ballot.--The ballots used in bond referenda shall be on plain white paper with printed description of the issuance of bonds to be voted on as prescribed by the authority calling the referendum. A separate statement of each issue of bonds to be approved, giving the amount of the bonds and interest rate thereon, together with other details necessary to inform the electors, shall be printed on the ballots in connection with the question "For Bonds" and "Against Bonds."

History.--s. 11, ch. 14715, 1931; CGL 1936 Supp. 457(11); s. 4, ch. 26870, 1951; s. 12, ch. 77-175.

Note.--Former s. 103.11.

100.342  Notice of special election or referendum.--In any special election or referendum not otherwise provided for there shall be at least 30 days' notice of the election or referendum by publication in a newspaper of general circulation in the county, district, or municipality, as the case may be. The publication shall be made at least twice, once in the fifth week and once in the third week prior to the week in which the election or referendum is to be held. If there is no newspaper of general circulation in the county, district, or municipality, the notice shall be posted in no less than five places within the territorial limits of the county, district, or municipality.

History.--s. 1, ch. 59-335; s. 2, ch. 65-60; s. 12, ch. 77-175.

100.351  Referendum election; certificate of results to Department of State.--Whenever an election is held under a referendum provision of an act of the Legislature, the election officials of the governmental unit in which the election is held shall certify the results thereof to the Department of State, which shall enter such results upon the official record of the act requiring such election on file in the office of the Department of State.

History.--s. 1, ch. 25438, 1949; s. 4, ch. 26870, 1951; ss. 10, 35, ch. 69-106; s. 12, ch. 77-175.

Note.--Former s. 99.59.

100.3605  Conduct of municipal elections.--

(1)  The Florida Election Code, chapters 97-106, shall govern the conduct of a municipality's election in the absence of an applicable special act, charter, or ordinance provision. No charter or ordinance provision shall be adopted which conflicts with or exempts a municipality from any provision in the Florida Election Code that expressly applies to municipalities.

(2)  The governing body of a municipality may, by ordinance, change the dates for qualifying and for the election of members of the governing body of the municipality and provide for the orderly transition of office resulting from such date changes.

History.--s. 2, ch. 95-178.

100.361  Municipal recall.--

(1)  RECALL PETITION.--Any member of the governing body of a municipality or charter county, hereinafter referred to in this section as "municipality," may be removed from office by the electors of the municipality. When the official represents a district and is elected only by electors residing in that district, only electors from that district are eligible to sign the petition to recall that official and are entitled to vote in the recall election. When the official represents a district and is elected at-large by the electors of the municipality, all electors of the municipality are eligible to sign the petition to recall that official and are entitled to vote in the recall election. Where used in this section, the term "district" shall be construed to mean the area or region of a municipality from which a member of the governing body is elected by the electors from such area or region. Members may be removed from office by the following procedure:

(a)  A petition shall be prepared naming the person sought to be recalled and containing a statement of grounds for recall in not more than 200 words limited solely to the grounds specified in paragraph (b). If more than one member of the governing body is sought to be recalled, whether such member is elected by the electors of a district or by the electors of the municipality at-large, a separate recall petition shall be prepared for each member sought to be recalled.

1.  In a municipality or district of fewer than 500 electors, the petition shall be signed by at least 50 electors or by 10 percent of the total number of registered electors of the municipality or district as of the preceding municipal election, whichever is greater.

2.  In a municipality or district of 500 or more but fewer than 2,000 registered electors, the petition shall be signed by at least 100 electors or by 10 percent of the total number of registered electors of the municipality or district as of the preceding municipal election, whichever is greater.

3.  In a municipality or district of 2,000 or more but fewer than 5,000 registered electors, the petition shall be signed by at least 250 electors or by 10 percent of the total number of registered electors of the municipality or district as of the preceding municipal election, whichever is greater.

4.  In a municipality or district of 5,000 or more but fewer than 10,000 registered electors, the petition shall be signed by at least 500 electors or by 10 percent of the total number of registered electors of the municipality or district as of the preceding municipal election, whichever is greater.

5.  In a municipality or district of 10,000 or more but fewer than 25,000 registered electors, the petition shall be signed by at least 1,000 electors or by 10 percent of the total number of registered electors of the municipality or district as of the preceding municipal election, whichever is greater.

6.  In a municipality or district of 25,000 or more registered electors, the petition shall be signed by at least 1,000 electors or by 5 percent of the total number of registered electors of the municipality or district as of the preceding municipal election, whichever is greater.

Electors of the municipality or district making charges contained in the statement of grounds for recall and those signing the recall petition shall be designated as the "committee." A specific person shall be designated in the petition as chair of the committee to act for the committee. Electors of the municipality or district are eligible to sign the petition. Signatures and oaths of witnesses shall be executed as provided in paragraph (c). All signatures shall be obtained within a period of 30 days, and the petition shall be filed within 30 days after the date the first signature is obtained on the petition.

(b)  The grounds for removal of elected municipal officials shall, for the purposes of this act, be limited to the following and must be contained in the petition:

1.  Malfeasance;

2.  Misfeasance;

3.  Neglect of duty;

4.  Drunkenness;

5.  Incompetence;

6.  Permanent inability to perform official duties; and

7.  Conviction of a felony involving moral turpitude.

(c)  Each elector of the municipality signing a petition shall sign his or her name in ink or indelible pencil as registered in the office of the supervisor of elections and shall state on the petition his or her place of residence and voting precinct. Each petition shall contain appropriate lines for the signature, printed name, and street address of the elector and an oath, to be executed by a witness thereof, verifying the fact that the witness saw each person sign the counterpart of the petition, that each signature appearing thereon is the genuine signature of the person it purports to be, and that the petition was signed in the presence of the witness on the date indicated.

(d)  The petition shall be filed with the auditor or clerk of the municipality or charter county, or his or her equivalent, hereinafter referred to as clerk, by the person designated as chair of the committee, and, when the petition is filed, the clerk shall submit such petition to the county supervisor of elections who shall, within a period of not more than 30 days after the petition is filed with the supervisor, determine whether the petition contains the required valid signatures. The petition cannot be amended after it is filed with the clerk. The supervisor shall be paid by the persons or committee seeking verification the sum of 10 cents for each name checked.

(e)  If it is determined that the petition does not contain the required signatures, the clerk shall so certify to the governing body of the municipality or charter county and file the petition without taking further action, and the matter shall be at an end. No additional names may be added to the petition, and the petition shall not be used in any other proceeding.

(f)  If it is determined that the petition has the required signatures, then the clerk shall at once serve upon the person sought to be recalled a certified copy of the petition. Within 5 days after service, the person sought to be recalled may file with the clerk a defensive statement of not more than 200 words. The clerk shall, within 5 days, prepare a sufficient number of typewritten, printed, or mimeographed copies of the recall petition and defensive statement, as well as the names, addresses, and oaths on the original petition, and deliver them to the person who has been designated as chair of the committee and take his or her receipt therefor. Such prepared copies shall be entitled "Recall Petition and Defense" and shall contain lines and spaces for signatures and printed names of registered electors, place of residence, election precinct number, and date of signing, together with oaths to be executed by the witnesses which conform to the provisions of paragraph (c). The clerk shall deliver forms sufficient to carry the signatures of 30 percent of the registered electors.

(g)  Upon receipt of the "Recall Petition and Defense," the committee may circulate them to obtain the signatures of 15 percent of the electors. Any elector who signs a recall petition shall have the right to demand in writing that his or her name be stricken from the petition. A written demand signed by the elector shall be filed with the clerk and upon receipt of the demand the clerk shall strike the name of the elector from the petition and place his or her initials to the side of the signature stricken. However, no signature may be stricken after the clerk has delivered the "Recall Petition and Defense" to the supervisor of elections for verification.

(h)  Within 60 days after delivery of the "Recall Petition and Defense" to the chair, the chair shall file with the clerk the "Recall Petition and Defense" which bears the signatures of electors. The clerk shall assemble all signed petitions, check to see that each petition is properly verified by the oath of a witness, and submit such petitions to the county supervisor of elections, who shall determine the number of valid signatures, purge the names withdrawn, certify within 30 days whether 15 percent of the qualified electors of the municipality have signed the petitions, and report his or her findings to the governing body. The supervisor shall be paid by the persons or committee seeking verification the sum of 10 cents for each name checked.

(i)  If the petitions do not contain the required signatures, the clerk shall report such fact to the governing body and file the petitions, the proceedings shall be terminated, and the petitions shall not again be used. If the signatures do amount to at least 15 percent of the qualified electors, the clerk shall serve notice of that fact upon the person sought to be recalled and deliver to the governing body a certificate as to the percentage of qualified voters who signed.

(2)  RECALL ELECTION.--If the person designated in the petition files with the clerk, within 5 days after the last-mentioned notice, his or her written resignation, the clerk shall at once notify the governing body of that fact, and the resignation shall be irrevocable. The governing body shall then proceed to fill the vacancy according to the provisions of the appropriate law. In the absence of a resignation, the chief judge of the judicial circuit in which the municipality is located shall fix a day for holding a recall election for the removal of those not resigning. Any such election shall be held not less than 30 days or more than 60 days after the expiration of the 5-day period last-mentioned and at the same time as any other general or special election held within the period; but if no such election is to be held within that period, the judge shall call a special recall election to be held within the period aforesaid.

(3)  BALLOTS.--The ballots at the recall election shall conform to the following: With respect to each person whose removal is sought, the question shall be submitted: "Shall _____ be removed from the office of _____ by recall?" Immediately following each question there shall be printed on the ballots the two propositions in the order here set forth:

" (name of person)  should be removed from office."

" (name of person)  should not be removed from office."


Immediately to the right of each of the propositions shall be placed a square on which the electors, by making a crossmark (X), may vote either of the propositions. Voting machines or electronic or electromechanical equipment may be used.

(4)  FILLING OF VACANCIES; SPECIAL ELECTIONS.--

(a)  If an election is held for the recall of members elected only at-large, candidates to succeed them for the unexpired terms shall be voted upon at the same election and shall be elected in the same manner as provided by the appropriate law for the election of candidates at general elections. Candidates shall not be elected to succeed any particular member. If only one member is removed, the candidate receiving the highest number of votes shall be declared elected to fill the vacancy. If more than one member is removed, candidates equal in number to the number of members removed shall be declared elected to fill the vacancies; and, among the successful candidates, those receiving the greatest number of votes shall be declared elected for the longest terms. Cases of ties, and all other matters not herein specially provided for, shall be determined by the rules governing elections generally.

(b)  If an election is held for the recall of members elected only from districts, candidates to succeed them for the unexpired terms shall be voted upon at a special election called by the chief judge of the judicial circuit in which the districts are located not less than 30 days or more than 60 days after the expiration of the recall election. The qualifying period, for purposes of this section, shall be established by the chief judge of the judicial circuit after consultation with the clerk. Any candidate seeking election to fill the unexpired term of a recalled district municipal official shall reside in the district represented by the recalled official and qualify for office in the manner required by law. Each candidate receiving the highest number of votes for each office in the special district recall election shall be declared elected to fill the unexpired term of the recalled official. Candidates seeking election to fill a vacancy created by the removal of a municipal official shall be subject to the provisions of chapter 106.

(c)  When an election is held for the recall of members of the governing body composed of both members elected at-large and from districts, candidates to succeed them for the unexpired terms shall be voted upon at a special election as provided in paragraph (b).

(d)  However, in any recall election held pursuant to paragraph (b) or paragraph (c), if only one member is voted to be removed from office, the vacancy created by the recall shall be filled by the governing body according to the provisions of the appropriate law for filling vacancies.

(5)  EFFECT OF RESIGNATIONS.--If the member of the governing body being recalled resigns from office prior to the recall election, the remaining members shall fill the vacancy created according to the appropriate law for filling vacancies. If all of the members of the governing body are sought to be recalled and all of the members resign prior to the recall election, the recall election shall be canceled, and a special election shall be called to fill the unexpired terms of the resigning members. If all of the members of the governing body are sought to be recalled and any of the members resign prior to the recall election, the proceedings for the recall of members not resigning and the election of successors to fill the unexpired terms shall continue and have the same effect as though there had been no resignation.

(6)  WHEN PETITION MAY BE FILED.--No petition to recall any member of the governing body of a municipality shall be filed until the member has served one-fourth of his or her term of office. No person removed by a recall, or resigning after a petition has been filed against him or her, shall be eligible to be appointed to the governing body within a period of 2 years after the date of such recall or resignation. The clerk shall preserve in his or her office all papers comprising or connected with a petition for recall for a period of 2 years after they were filed. This method of removing members of the governing body of a municipality is in addition to such other methods now or hereafter provided by the general laws of this state.

(7)  OFFENSES RELATING TO PETITIONS.--No person shall impersonate another, purposely write his or her name or residence falsely in the signing of any petition for recall or forge any name thereto, or sign any paper with knowledge that he or she is not a qualified elector of the municipality. No expenditures for campaigning for or against an officer being recalled shall be made until the date on which the recall election is to be held is publicly announced. The committee and the officer being recalled shall be subject to chapter 106. No person shall employ or pay another to accept employment or payment for circulating or witnessing a recall petition. Any person violating any of the provisions of this section shall be deemed guilty of a misdemeanor of the second degree and shall, upon conviction, be punished as provided by law.

(8)  INTENT.--It is the intent of the Legislature that the recall procedures provided in this act shall be uniform statewide. Therefore, all municipal charter and special law provisions which are contrary to the provisions of this act are hereby repealed to the extent of this conflict.

(9)  PROVISIONS APPLICABLE.--The provisions of this act shall apply to cities and charter counties whether or not they have adopted recall provisions.

History.--ss. 1, 2, ch. 74-130; s. 1, ch. 77-174; s. 12, ch. 77-175; s. 1, ch. 77-279; s. 1, ch. 81-312; s. 20, ch. 83-217; s. 17, ch. 89-338; s. 15, ch. 90-315; s. 549, ch. 95-147; s. 14, ch. 95-280; s. 1, ch. 2000-249.

¹100.371  Initiatives; procedure for placement on ballot.--

(1)  Constitutional amendments proposed by initiative shall be placed on the ballot for the general election occurring in excess of 90 days from the certification of ballot position by the Secretary of State.

(2)  Such certification shall be issued when the Secretary of State has received verification certificates from the supervisors of elections indicating that the requisite number and distribution of valid signatures of electors have been submitted to and verified by the supervisors. Every signature shall be dated when made and shall be valid for a period of 4 years following such date, provided all other requirements of law are complied with.

(3)  The sponsor of an initiative amendment shall, prior to obtaining any signatures, register as a political committee pursuant to s. 106.03 and submit the text of the proposed amendment to the Secretary of State, with the form on which the signatures will be affixed, and shall obtain the approval of the Secretary of State of such form. The Secretary of State shall promulgate rules pursuant to s. 120.54 prescribing the style and requirements of such form.

(4)  The sponsor shall submit signed and dated forms to the appropriate supervisor of elections for verification as to the number of registered electors whose valid signatures appear thereon. The supervisor shall promptly verify the signatures upon payment of the fee required by s. 99.097. Upon completion of verification, the supervisor shall execute a certificate indicating the total number of signatures checked, the number of signatures verified as valid and as being of registered electors, and the distribution by congressional district. This certificate shall be immediately transmitted to the Secretary of State. The supervisor shall retain the signature forms for at least 1 year following the election in which the issue appeared on the ballot or until the Division of Elections notifies the supervisors of elections that the committee which circulated the petition is no longer seeking to obtain ballot position.

(5)  The Secretary of State shall determine from the verification certificates received from supervisors of elections the total number of verified valid signatures and the distribution of such signatures by congressional districts. Upon a determination that the requisite number and distribution of valid signatures have been obtained, the secretary shall issue a certificate of ballot position for that proposed amendment and shall assign a designating number pursuant to s. 101.161. A petition shall be deemed to be filed with the Secretary of State upon the date of the receipt by the secretary of a certificate or certificates from supervisors of elections indicating the petition has been signed by the constitutionally required number of electors.

(6)  The Department of State shall have the authority to promulgate rules in accordance with s. 120.54 to carry out the provisions of this section.

History.--s. 15, ch. 79-365; s. 12, ch. 83-251; s. 30, ch. 84-302; s. 22, ch. 97-13.

¹Note.--The text as published here does not include an amendment by s. 22, ch. 97-13. Section 56, ch. 97-13, provides that the amendment to s. 100.371 by s. 22, ch. 97-13, "relating to signature verification periods and random sampling for proposed initiative amendments, shall take effect on the effective date of amendments to the State Constitution approved by the electors at the general election to be held in November 1998 which authorize, or remove impediment to, enactment by the Legislature of the provisions of that section." Other portions of the changes by s. 22, ch. 97-13, were apparently not subject to the contingency. No constitutional amendment relating to signature verification periods and random sampling for proposed initiative petitions passed at the 1998 general election. As amended by s. 22, ch. 97-13, the text of s. 100.371 reads:

100.371  Initiatives; procedure for placement on ballot.--

(1)(a)  The sponsor of a constitutional amendment proposed by initiative must register as a political committee under s. 106.03 prior to taking or initiating any action with respect to that amendment.

(b)  After registering as a political committee, the sponsor of a constitutional amendment proposed by initiative shall submit the text of the proposed initiative amendment and the petition format to the division for approval. The division shall promulgate rules pursuant to s. 120.54 prescribing the style and requirements of petition formats.

(2)(a)  If the sponsor of a proposed initiative amendment intends to employ or contract with any person to gather voter signatures, the sponsor must, before employing or contracting with such person, file an affidavit with the division, the form of which shall be prepared by the division, giving notice of the intended use of paid petition circulators.

(b)  A sponsor of a proposed initiative amendment who uses paid petition circulators shall provide to the division the name and address of each individual paid to gather petition signatures. Such information shall be filed at the time reports are filed pursuant to s. 106.07.

(c)  Each paid petition circulator must place his or her name and address on each petition form for which he or she is gathering signatures on behalf of the sponsor of the proposed initiative amendment. The sponsor of a proposed initiative amendment is responsible for ensuring that the name and address of the paid circulator appear on the petition form prior to its submission to the supervisor for verification.

(d)  A sponsor of a proposed initiative amendment who uses paid petition circulators may not file an oath of undue burden in lieu of paying the fee required by s. 99.097 for the verification of signatures gathered.

(3)  No later than 5 p.m. on the 151st day prior to the general election at which the proposed initiative amendment is to be voted on for a name-by-name, signature-by-signature verification and no later than 5 p.m. on the 121st day prior to the general election at which the proposed initiative amendment is to be voted on for a random-sampling verification, the sponsor shall submit signed and dated petition forms for that petition to each appropriate supervisor for verification as to the number of voters whose valid signatures appear thereon. Each signature shall be dated when made and shall be valid for a period of 4 years following such date, provided all other requirements of law are complied with. The supervisor shall promptly verify the signatures upon payment of the fee or filing of the oath of undue burden required by s. 99.097. Upon completion of verification, which shall occur no later than the 91st day prior to the general election, the supervisor shall execute a certificate indicating the total number of signatures checked, the number of signatures verified as valid, and the distribution of signatures by congressional district. This certificate shall be immediately transmitted to the division. The supervisor shall retain the signed and dated petition forms for at least 1 year following the election in which the proposed initiative amendment appeared on the ballot or until the division notifies the supervisors that the committee which circulated the petition is no longer seeking to obtain ballot position.

(4)  The division shall determine from the certificates received from the supervisors the total number of valid signatures and the distribution of such signatures by congressional district. Upon a determination that the requisite number and distribution of valid signatures have been obtained, the division shall issue a certificate of ballot position for that proposed initiative amendment and shall assign a designating number pursuant to s. 101.161. A petition is considered filed with the Secretary of State upon the date of the receipt by the division of a certificate or certificates from the supervisors indicating that the petition has been signed by the constitutionally required number of voters.

(5)  Constitutional amendments proposed by initiative shall be placed on the ballot for the next general election held more than 90 days after the certification of ballot position by the division.

(6)  The division may promulgate rules to carry out the provisions of this section.