General Assembly Raised Bill No. 393 proposes amendments to the procedures for holding special elections to fill vacancies in elected offices resulting from the death of the incumbent. A key insertion in the bill mandates that the Governor must issue writs of election within a timeframe of not less than seven days and not more than seventeen days following the vacancy. This new requirement aims to expedite the election process for both congressional and General Assembly positions, ensuring that representation is restored promptly. The bill also introduces clarifications regarding the Governor's responsibilities in relation to the timing of elections, particularly when vacancies occur close to regular state or municipal elections.

In addition to the new provisions, the bill removes previous subdivisions that outlined different procedures for filling vacancies based on their timing relative to election dates. It also includes similar provisions for probate judges, promoting consistency across various offices. The amendments will take effect on October 1, 2026, and are detailed in sections 9-211(a), 9-212(a), 9-215(b), and 9-218. Overall, Raised Bill No. 393 aims to streamline the electoral process and ensure timely representation following the death of an elected official, while also providing a brief period for reflection before proceeding with special elections.