By Communications Department - Archdiocese of Miami
Tallahassee, Florida | The Florida Conference of Catholic Bishops has updated its Election and Political Activities Guide for the 2016 election season. Most edits were minor in nature – updated quotes and wordsmithing in a few places.
The most significant change is to the section on “Conducting Voter Registration Drives” (Page 8). The new language was approved by the bishops at their FCCB board meeting in February and addresses outside organizations or persons who wish to conduct drives on parish property. The document states “Only organizations that are both affiliated with and approved by the diocese may conduct voter registration drives on parish property (e.g. Knights of Columbus, Council of Catholic Women).”
The need to clarify the language in this section became apparent after inquiries were made in a couple of dioceses earlier this year by those wishing to conduct drives who displayed a partisan bias or supported policy positions contrary to the FCCB and Church teaching. The guide continues to encourage parishes that wish to conduct their own voter registration drives to seek permission from the diocese.
The updated guide is available online in both English and Spanish in a printable booklet format and an online viewing format:
Election & Political Activities Guide - Online Viewing Format | Spanish
Election & Political Activities Guide - Booklet Format | Spanish
