This bill amends various sections of the Idaho Code to revise the filing fees for candidates running for state and federal offices. Notably, the filing fee for candidates for the United States Senate is increased from $500 to $1,000, and for the House of Representatives from $300 to $500. Additionally, the fees for several state offices, including the Lieutenant Governor, Secretary of State, State Controller, State Treasurer, Attorney General, and Superintendent of Public Instruction, are raised to $1,000. The filing fees for state representatives and senators are increased from $30 to $250, and for district judges from $150 to $250. Furthermore, the filing fee for county commissioners is raised from $40 to $100. These changes aim to standardize and enhance the financial commitment required from candidates, potentially ensuring that those who run for office are more serious about their candidacy.

The bill also revises qualifications and election processes for various county offices, including sheriff, clerk of the district court, county treasurer, county assessor, county coroner, and county prosecuting attorney, with a significant increase in the filing fee for candidates from $40 to $100. Additionally, newly elected sheriffs are required to complete a tutorial on current Idaho law and attend a newly elected sheriffs' school, while newly elected coroners must attend a coroner's school within one year of taking office. The bill maintains existing qualifications for candidates, such as age, citizenship, and residency requirements, and aims to standardize the election process to ensure candidates are adequately prepared for their roles in county governance. The amendments are set to take effect on July 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
Bill Text: 34-604, 34-605, 34-608, 34-609, 34-610, 34-611, 34-612, 34-613, 34-614, 34-615, 34-616, 34-617, 34-618, 34-619, 34-620, 34-621, 34-622, 34-623