Taxpayers could pick up the tab for security for Republican and Democratic nominees for statewide offices, per legislation moving in the House.

HB 401 sailed through the House State Affairs Committee. The bill would require the Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE) to provide a security detail to the winners of Democratic and Republican Primaries for the offices of Governor, Lieutenant Governor, Attorney General, Chief Financial Officer and Agriculture Commissioner.

FDLE already provides security for Gov. Ron DeSantis and his family, which costs millions of dollars a year, according to media reports.

Rep. Tyler Sirois, a Merritt Island Republican sponsoring the bill, kept his remarks short as he presented HB 401 during its first committee stop. The bill brought little debate and a unanimous vote of support from lawmakers. Sirois did not provide a cost estimate at the Thursday hearing.

Sen. Bryan Ávila has filed a companion bill (SB 500). The legislation comes after several high-profile political assassinations, from conservative activist Charlie Kirk to a Minnesota state lawmaker, as well as President Donald Trump surviving being shot at twice.

If passed, the enhanced security measure would take effect July 1.

The bill would only apply to the nominees for the two major political parties, not minor parties.

“The protective security detail must be provided immediately upon the adjournment of the meeting of the Elections Canvassing Commission certifying the results of the primary election … until the relevant nominee concedes the general election or upon adjournment of the meeting of the Elections Canvassing Commission certifying the results of the general election … whichever is earlier,” the bill says.

“The Department of Law Enforcement must continue to provide a protective security detail to the officers-elect until the officers-elect assume office.”

Several key contests are competitive this year, from the Governor’s race to Cabinet-level positions, including CFO Blaise Ingoglia running against Rep. Kevin Steele for the GOP nomination in the Chief Financial Officer race.

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