Tallahassee, Fla. – Today, Governor Ron DeSantis signed Executive Order 19-261 extending the State of Emergency for Hurricane Michael, as well as Executive Order 19-262, which expands early voting in Bay and Gulf counties.
Executive Order 19-262 provides the supervisors of elections in Bay and Gulf counties the ability to designate one or more additional early voting sites, as well as the ability to relocate or consolidate any polling place. Additionally, it provides date flexibility of early voting periods and grants authority to ensure the public is aware of such changes.
“As Bay and Gulf counties recover, it is essential that we restore a sense of normalcy to every Floridian impacted by this storm, and that includes ensuring they can exercise their right to vote,” said Governor DeSantis. “I’m proud that through these two executive orders, we are extending the ability to utilize all state resources for Hurricane Michael recovery while also expanding early voting. We will continue to do everything possible to support these resilient communities.”
“The Florida Department of State has been working closely with the supervisors of elections in Bay and Gulf counties as their communities continue to recover from one of the most powerful storms ever to hit the United States,” said Secretary of State Laurel M. Lee. “Making sure every voter in those counties has the opportunity to have their voice heard in 2020 is a top priority of ours and I am grateful for Governor DeSantis’ leadership on this issue.”
