The proposed bill would amend current election statutes regarding the rotation of political party candidates on ballots for general elections. Under current law, candidates are listed in descending order based on the number of votes received for Governor in the most recent gubernatorial election, with parties that did not have candidates listed alphabetically below those that did. The bill introduces a new requirement starting in 2027, mandating that the names of political parties on the ballot be alternated so that each party appears at the top, bottom, and in intermediate positions a substantially equal number of times. This change aims to enhance fairness in the presentation of candidates.

Additionally, the bill removes the existing provision that allows for alphabetical ordering of candidates when the number of candidates is equal to or fewer than the number of offices to be filled. This means that even in such cases, rotation of names will be required. The bill also makes technical changes to the language of the statutes, ensuring clarity and consistency in the election process. Overall, these updates are intended to improve the electoral process by promoting equal visibility for all candidates on the ballot.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 16-464, 16-465, 16-468, 16-502
House Engrossed Version: 16-464, 16-465, 16-468, 16-502