Sept. 6, 2026 (Orange County, FL) – Now that the Primary Election is over, focus is now placed on the registration deadline for people to be able to vote in the General Election (in November).

That deadline is Monday, Oct. 5, less than five weeks away so if you or anyone in your household wants to participate in the voting process, take note of the date.

Registration matters because voting matters. It is a part of the process of being prepared to vote for the people you want to represent you in public offices locally, statewide and nationally.

Here in Florida, voters will also have a say on whether or not less property taxes should be collected from certain homeowners. The ballot question is Amendment 3, which, among other things, increases the homestead exemption for qualifying residents. That means less taxes will be collected for specific services provided by local governments, such as fire and rescue, police and libraries. It would not affect taxes collected for schools.

Many local government officials throughout the Central Florida region have expressed concerns of possible budget shortfalls if the amendment passes, according to reports.

Nothing has changed as far as the requirements to register and vote: You must be 18 years old, a United States citizen and a Florida resident. Sixteen- and 17-year-olds can preregister with the Orange County Elections Office so when they turn 18 (and still live in the state), their registration will become active, according to the elections office.

For more details on registering to vote, reach out to the elections office, 119 W. Kaley St., Orlando, FL 32806. Phone: (407) 836-2070. Website: Orange County Supervisor of Elections | Karen Castor Dentel | Florida