CS/HB 609 - Article V Constitutional Convention Act

• Establishes the "Article V Constitutional Convention Act" providing procedures for Florida to appoint delegates and alternate delegates to a federal constitutional convention for proposing amendments to the U.S. Constitution.

• Requires delegates to be Florida residents, registered voters, not registered lobbyists, and not holding federal office; Legislature appoints delegates and alternate delegates by majority vote in each chamber, with delegates paired with alternates.

• Delegates and alternates must execute a written oath to support the U.S. and state constitutions, follow legislative instructions, and serve without compensation but may be reimbursed for per diem and travel expenses.

• Creates penalties including third-degree felony charges for delegates who knowingly or intentionally vote outside the scope of legislative instructions or convention limits; declares such votes void and results in forfeiture of appointment.

• Establishes an advisory group of three attorneys to advise delegates on compliance with instructions, render determinations within 24 hours of requests, and inform the Attorney General of violations so credentials can be revoked.

• Takes effect July 1, 2014.