This bill amends several sections of the Idaho Code concerning election dates, definitions, and procedures. It changes the election dates for various offices, replacing the previously established "third Tuesday of May" with a new date specified in section 34-106(1)(a) for biennial elections in districts and in section 34-106(1)(b) for city elections, which also replaces the "Tuesday following the first Monday of November." The bill updates the definition of "primary election" to include the purpose of allowing voters to express their preference for presidential candidates and establishes a new section for presidential primaries to be held in presidential election years.

Additionally, the bill introduces provisions for the nomination of presidential candidates, requiring them to file a declaration of candidacy and pay a filing fee. It clarifies the process for certifying election results for presidential candidates and outlines the terms of office for various elected positions, including library trustees and highway commissioners. The bill also details the election process for board members in newly organized districts, stating that if the number of candidates equals the number of positions, those candidates will be declared elected without a formal election. An emergency declaration is included, with the act set to take effect on July 1, 2026.

Statutes affected:
Bill Text: 33-2715, 34-102, 34-106, 34-601, 34-606, 34-703, 34-1214, 39-1330, 40-1305, 42-3211, 50-405, 67-4911