As we gear up for election season this November, it’s crucial to understand each of the six proposed state constitutional amendments appearing on Florida’s ballot and their potential impacts. Here and over our next two newsletters, we here at Lisa Miller and Associates will break down each of the amendments, giving you a brief guide to the 2024 ballot initiatives, helping you make an informed decision for the future of the Sunshine State.
Amendment 1 involves establishing the political affiliation of candidates in School Board races, requiring this information to be disclosed to voters on the ballot. Since 2000, these races have been non-partisan in Florida, which means political affiliation does not appear on the ballot next to candidates’ names. This amendment would also allow parties to select a nominee through a Primary for the desired seat. Opponents of this measure question the efficacy of partisanship in School Board races, preferring that this sphere of life remain as apolitical as possible. However, for others, this is a metric for policy and increased transparency – many voters want to be the most informed they can be on all candidates and believe that party alignment is indicative of core values. This amendment was placed on the ballot by the Florida Legislature, who cannot implement the measure otherwise. A “yes” vote would support reverting to partisan races, while a “no” vote would uphold the current system. If approved, it would be implemented in all elections in/after November 2026.
Amendment 2, if passed, would enshrine the right to hunt and fish in Florida’s constitution under Section 28 of Article I. Such a change to the state constitution would obstruct future legislative attempts to restrict hunting and fishing statewide. At its core, the issue is one of tradition and civil liberties for the supporters of the bill, with many highlighting the fact that the industries play a huge role in the Florida economy and way of life. On the flipside is an environmental push for protection and conservation, with detractors claiming this poses a direct threat to wildlife through overfishing or hunting. A “yes” vote would support the protection of hunting and fishing without limiting “authority granted to the Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission,” per the ballot language, and a “no” vote would leave this portion of the constitution unchanged. This amendment was placed on the ballot by the Florida Legislature, who cannot implement the measure otherwise.
All proposed amendments to Florida’s constitution require a 60% majority vote to be approved. Election Day is Tuesday, November 5. We urge all readers to exercise their right to vote and make their voice heard in the 2024 election.
See you on the trail,
Lisa
LMA Newsletter of 8-19-24
