FL H8007

Creates new Joint Rule 7 establishing residency requirements for Florida Legislature members, requiring members to be legal residents and electors of their district at election time and maintain residency throughout their term of office.

Defines legal residence using a totality of circumstances test, including 13 factors such as voter registration, homestead exemption claims, driver's license address, spouse and children location, mail delivery address, and customary residence.

Specifies that a vacancy in office occurs when a member fails to maintain legal residence within their district, and grants each legislative house sole authority to judge member qualifications under the Florida Constitution.

Requires each member to file a written affirmation of legal residency with the Secretary of the Senate or Clerk of the House before the Organization Session following general elections, or before taking the oath of office for special elections.

Authorizes the Secretary of the Senate and Clerk of the House to prescribe the form of written affirmation for their respective chambers.