This bill amends several sections of the Idaho Code related to the filling of vacancies for political party candidates and the withdrawal of candidacy. Specifically, it revises Section 34-714 to clarify the process for filling vacancies that occur before an election, including stipulations for when a vacancy can be filled and the timeline for doing so. Notably, it establishes that vacancies occurring fewer than fifty days before a primary election shall not be filled, while those occurring before a general election must be filled by a specified deadline. Additionally, it repeals Section 34-715, which previously addressed filling vacancies before or after a primary election.

The bill also amends Section 34-717 to update the withdrawal process for candidates, allowing independent candidates to withdraw from the general election under specific conditions. It sets a new deadline for candidates to withdraw and clarifies that candidates who withdraw cannot be appointed to fill a vacancy unless it is due to the death of a previous candidate. Furthermore, it makes technical corrections to Section 34-909 regarding the certification of candidates for the general election ballot. The bill declares an emergency, making it effective from July 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
Bill Text: 34-714, 34-715, 34-717, 34-909