FL S0114

Revises s. 104.271 to prohibit candidates, political committees, electioneering communications organizations, political parties, and other groups from making statements or sponsoring political advertising with actual malice that constitutes libel or defamation per se about candidates.

Expands civil penalty authority to assess up to $5,000 against violators, with penalties to be deposited into the General Revenue Fund and commensurate with damages suffered and scope of the violation.

Defines "libel or defamation per se" as a false or malicious statement that injures a candidate's reputation and exposes the candidate to public hatred, contempt, or ridicule.

Requires candidates to file an oath with their filing officer within 72 hours after original publication of political advertisements attesting that the content is truthful, verified, and approved by the candidate.

Takes effect July 1, 2013.