This bill proposes several updates to the Arizona Revised Statutes regarding political parties, specifically amending sections 16-462, 16-502, 16-801, and 16-802. Key changes include the requirement that the name used to identify each political party on the primary ballot be prescribed by sections 16-801 and 16-802. Additionally, the bill modifies the criteria for a new political party to gain recognition, changing the percentage of required signatures from "per cent" to "percent" and specifying that the proposed party name must be distinguishable from existing parties and cannot include certain terms like "unaffiliated" or "independent."

Furthermore, the bill mandates that the Secretary of State and election officials recognize a political party by the name listed on its petition unless a new petition is filed. It also clarifies the process for a new political party to be represented on ballots, ensuring compliance with section 16-801. The act is intended to reduce voter confusion and improve election administration, with retroactive applicability from December 31, 2024, and an emergency provision for immediate implementation.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 16-462, 16-502, 16-801, 16-802, 16-341, 19-125, 16-400, 16-315, 16-804, 16-803