By Eva Liguori
Herald Intern
Florida’s House Bill 991 is set to take effect on Jan. 1, 2027, introducing updates to the voter registration and verification process which is aimed at strengthening eligibility checks.
House Bill 991, also known as the Florida SAVE Act or the “Show Your Papers” law, was signed into law by Gov. Ron DeSantis on April 1, 2026. The legislation is designed to strengthen the integrity of Florida’s voter registration system.
Beginning in 2027, any new or renewed driver’s license will include a citizenship status identifier. The law also requires that if the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles cannot verify an applicant’s U.S. citizenship, the individual must visit their local Supervisor of Elections office where they are registered to vote to provide documentation and confirm eligibility.
Seminole County Supervisor of Elections Amy Pennock said she does not foresee the new legislation creating significant delays in the voter registration process.
“I don't think it's going to be a huge delay at all, honestly,” Pennock said. “The only extra staff time is if the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles cannot validate a person, in which case they would come into my office after receiving a letter so we can resolve it.”
To help avoid in-person visits to resolve registration errors, voters are encouraged to promptly update their information with the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles following any changes to citizenship, address or legal name. Applicants should also ensure their Social Security number is accurately transcribed on their voter registration application, as the system relies on these records as its primary verification source.
Despite these precautions Pennock said she is not concerned for voters about these changes.
“I’m not concerned about it, and voters shouldn’t be either,” Pennock said.“If there are any questions, we encourage people to contact our office so we can help resolve them.”
For questions regarding voter registration, contact Seminole County Supervisor of Elections Amy Pennock at 407-585-8683. Office hours are 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday.
