Modernization of Campaign Finance Reports - 'Working Smarter Not Harder'

In 2008, the Florida Legislature amended Florida Statute 106.07(2)(a)(2) to allow local governments to accept electronic filing of campaign financial reports rather than actual paper filing. In order for this change to be implemented, the statute required adoption of a resolution or ordinance to this effect. At my request, the Pasco County Board of County Commissioners (BOCC), as well as all 6 municipalities (Dade City, New Port Richey, Port Richey, Zephyrhills, St. Leo and San Antonio) unanimously approved the changeover to electronic filing.

Effective this election cycle, this new electronic filing provision will apply to all candidates for elective office, county political party executive committees and political committees which are required by law to qualify with my office, and in the case of municipal elections, candidates required to qualify with city clerks.

Previously, candidates and committees file statutorily required reports utilizing a software program provided by my office. Upon completion, the reports were e-mailed and had to be printed, signed by the candidate and treasurer, and either personally delivered or mailed to my office before the deadline. The new procedure eliminates this last step thereby saving printing, postage and gas expenses, as well as streamlining procedures for efficiently filing required campaign finance reports.

Through our continual assessment of procedures and methodology, utilization of technology is just one of the ways my office has been able to improve efficiency while maintaining a level of service to the constituents of Pasco County.