The bill amends K.S.A. 19-3419 to establish that in counties with populations exceeding 125,000, the office of the county election commissioner will be appointed by the secretary of state and will serve a four-year term. A search committee, including representatives from the county and the secretary of state's office, will recommend candidates for the position. The bill also stipulates that the election commissioner must be a resident of the state for at least two years prior to appointment and must take an oath of office before assuming duties.

Significantly, the bill introduces a provision that, starting July 1, 2025, the secretary of state will no longer appoint individuals to the office of county election commissioner. Instead, upon any vacancy in this office, all responsibilities related to election conduct will be transferred to the county clerk. This includes the management of voter registration and election processes. Additionally, the bill repeals K.S.A. 19-3419, indicating a complete overhaul of the current election commissioner structure in favor of consolidating election responsibilities under the county clerk's office.

Statutes affected:
As introduced: 19-3419