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HB 401

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2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Eric Bell and 5 co-sponsors

HB 401 mandates Florida's Department of Law Enforcement to provide security for major party candidates for governor, lieutenant governor, and cabinet officers during elections.

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Bill Summary · HB 401

Summary of HB 401: Security for Statewide Constitutional Office Candidates

Bill Information:
- Bill Number: HB 401
- Title: Security for Statewide Constitutional Office Candidates
- Status: Filed
- Introduced: November 12, 2025
- Classification: Bill
- Subject: Electors and Elections

Purpose and Intent

HB 401 aims to enhance the security of candidates running for statewide constitutional offices in Florida. The bill mandates that the Department of Law Enforcement (DLE) provide protective security details to certain candidates during critical periods of the electoral process, ensuring their safety as they campaign and transition into office.

Key Provisions

The bill introduces a new section to the Florida Statutes, specifically Section 99.122, which outlines the following provisions:

  1. Protective Security Detail Requirement:

    • The DLE is required to provide a protective security detail to nominees of a political party (excluding minor political party nominees) for the following offices:
      • Governor
      • Lieutenant Governor
      • Cabinet Officers

  2. Timing of Security Provision:

    • Security details must be provided immediately after the adjournment of the Elections Canvassing Commission meeting that certifies the results of the primary election.
    • This protection continues until:
      • The nominee concedes the general election, or
      • The meeting of the Elections Canvassing Commission certifying the results of the general election adjourns, whichever occurs first.
    • Additionally, the DLE must maintain the protective detail for officers-elect until they officially assume office.

Affected Parties

The bill primarily affects:
- Nominees for statewide constitutional offices (Governor, Lieutenant Governor, Cabinet Officers) from major political parties.
- Department of Law Enforcement, which will be responsible for implementing the security measures.

Procedural and Timeline Aspects

  • The bill is set to take effect on July 1, 2026, should it pass through the legislative process.
  • The requirement for protective security details is triggered by specific electoral events, ensuring that candidates are protected during critical phases of the election cycle.

Conclusion

HB 401 seeks to bolster the safety of key political candidates in Florida by mandating state-provided security during pivotal moments of their campaigns and transitions into office. This legislation reflects a proactive approach to candidate safety in the context of increasing concerns about political violence and threats.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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