The bill amends various sections of the Idaho Code to revise election procedures, particularly concerning the filing of declarations of candidacy and intent for different offices, including magistrates and recreation district directors. Key changes include adjusting filing deadlines to align with specific time periods outlined in sections 34-1404 and 34-1407, allowing for declarations of intent for write-in candidates to be filed during designated periods rather than a fixed number of days before elections. The bill also clarifies that if only one candidate is nominated for a position in recreation districts, an election is not necessary. Additionally, it introduces new requirements for write-in candidates and modifies the filing process for various offices, establishing clear timelines for candidate nominations and withdrawals.

Moreover, the bill updates voter registration deadlines, changing them from twenty-four days before an election to eleven days prior, and specifies that mail registration applications must be received by the county clerk by 5:00 p.m. on the eleventh day before the election. It also extends the canvassing timeline for election returns related to port district formations from five to nine days post-election and enhances the confidentiality provisions for judicial officers' addresses, allowing them to apply for exemptions from public disclosure. Overall, the bill aims to streamline election processes, ensure timely registration and candidacy procedures, and clarify the responsibilities of candidates and election officials, with an effective date set for July 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
Bill Text: 1-2220, 31-4306, 33-2705, 33-2717A, 34-106, 34-408, 34-410, 34-625, 34-625A, 34-702A, 34-704, 34-705, 34-712, 34-714, 34-715, 34-717, 34-1012, 34-1205, 34-1404, 34-1405A, 34-1407, 40-1305C, 42-3211, 50-407, 50-410, 67-4911, 70-1108, 19-6203