The General Assembly Raised Bill No. 5219 proposes significant changes to the order of gubernatorial succession in the event of the Governor's death, resignation, refusal to serve, or removal from office. The bill establishes a clear hierarchy for succession among key state officials, including the Lieutenant Governor, Speaker of the House, Treasurer, Secretary of the State, Comptroller, Attorney General, and the majority leaders of both the Senate and House of Representatives. Notably, if the Lieutenant Governor's office is vacant and the Senate has not elected a president pro tempore, the Speaker of the House will assume the role of Governor until a new Governor is elected. This structured process ensures that each subsequent officeholder is prepared to step in if the previous one is unable to serve.

Additionally, the bill outlines procedures for situations involving impeachment or absence of the Governor, reiterating that the Speaker of the House will take on the Governor's duties under specific conditions. The new legal language introduced in the bill clarifies the roles of the Secretary of the State, Comptroller, Attorney General, and the majority leaders of both legislative chambers in the event of a vacancy or incapacity. The bill also deletes previous language regarding gubernatorial succession, thereby updating the legal framework to reflect these changes. These provisions will take effect on October 1, 2026, ensuring a clear and structured line of succession in the state's executive leadership during both permanent and temporary absences.