This bill amends the Idaho Code to revise the election process for single countywide highway district commissioners, particularly in counties with populations exceeding 200,000. It establishes a system where the county is divided into five subdistricts, with voters in each subdistrict electing one candidate from their area. Starting in 2026, primary elections will be incorporated into the election process for these commissioners. The bill also mandates that candidates must reside in the subdistrict they represent and outlines their terms and salaries. Additionally, it modifies provisions related to write-in candidates and the nomination process, specifying signature requirements and the filing process with the county clerk.

Furthermore, the bill addresses the procedures for filling vacancies in federal and state offices, particularly when a candidate dies or is disqualified after a specified deadline. It states that if such an event occurs after 5:00 p.m. on the eighth Friday before the general election, the candidate's name will remain on the ballot, and the vacancy will be filled according to existing laws. The county and legislative district central committees are required to fill the vacancy within fifteen days, while the state central committee has thirty days. Candidates appointed to fill vacancies must file a declaration of candidacy and pay the necessary fee by the same deadline. An emergency clause is included, allowing the act to take effect immediately upon passage and approval.

Statutes affected:
Bill Text: 40-1404A, 34-702, 34-702A, 34-703, 34-704, 34-705, 34-706, 34-708, 34-712, 34-714, 34-715