SB 1660 Summary

• Creates online voter registration system beginning July 1, 2015, requiring Department of State to establish secure website with verification through Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles using driver license and identification numbers.

• Prohibits first-time online registrants from voting by absentee ballot in their initial election unless they qualify for exemptions (age 65+, disability, uniformed services member, Merchant Marine member, spouse/dependent of such member, or residing outside U.S.).

• Extends mail ballot canvassing start date from 6th day to 15th day before election; establishes special absentee ballot procedures and voter certificates for first-time online registrants with specific exemption checkboxes.

• Modifies campaign finance reporting schedules to require reports on 60th, 46th, 32nd, 25th, 18th, 11th, and 4th days preceding both primary and general elections; increases initial late filing penalty from $50 per day for 3 days to $50 per day for 7 days.

• Revises Florida Elections Commission procedures to allow electronic service of documents on respondents who consent, establishes wage garnishment and withholding provisions for unpaid fines ($2,000 maximum), extends collection period to 20 years, and allows amendments to complaints during case pendency.