Senate Bill No. 392 mandates that minor political parties must nominate candidates for office and select town committee members or convention delegates strictly according to their established party rules, which must be filed with the Secretary of the State. This requirement replaces the previous language that allowed for more flexibility, as the prior law stated that such nominations "may" be made according to party rules. The bill aims to clarify the process following a 2022 Superior Court ruling that indicated minor parties were not strictly bound to their own rules unless their actions were deemed unlawful or irrational.

The bill is set to take effect on January 1, 2027, and is expected to have no fiscal impact on the state or municipalities. The legislation was reported favorably by the Government Administration and Elections Committee, reflecting a unanimous vote in support. This change is intended to ensure that minor parties adhere to their own governance structures, thereby promoting consistency and accountability in the nomination process.

Statutes affected:
Raised Bill: 9-451
GAE Joint Favorable: 9-451
File No. 496: 9-451