As the 2025 hurricane season approaches, Common Cause is urging Florida lawmakers to address how hurricanes impact voting rights in the state. With numerous local elections and several legislative special elections scheduled during this hurricane season, there is concern about the lack of laws ensuring equal voting opportunities for those affected by disasters.
Voting rights experts are calling on the Florida Legislature to provide uniform support for all disaster-affected voters across different counties. Earlier this year, Representative Lindsey Cross and Senator Tina Polsky introduced bills (HB 1317 / SB 1486) aimed at offering immediate accommodations and support to voters in areas designated as eligible for disaster assistance by FEMA or declared under a state of emergency by the Governor.
While some provisions were initially included in an Emergencies bill (HB1535) during the 2025 legislative session, they were ultimately removed because the Florida Senate did not incorporate them. Amy Keith, Executive Director of Common Cause Florida, stated, “It is common sense to make sure that voters in all counties affected by a disaster have the same opportunities to vote.”
Keith emphasized that communities like St. Petersburg are still dealing with the aftermath of Hurricanes Helene and Milton from 2024. She stressed that while hurricanes have long-lasting effects on communities, it is crucial not to compromise citizens’ ability to participate in their government. Keith added that election officials and voters in disaster-affected areas deserve prompt and reliable support following a storm.
