The bill amends K.S.A. 19-3419 to establish significant changes regarding the office of county election commissioner in counties with populations exceeding 125,000. It stipulates that the 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. However, starting July 1, 2026, the secretary of state will no longer appoint individuals to this office. Instead, upon any vacancy, all responsibilities related to elections will be transferred to the county clerk, who will then oversee the conduct of elections in accordance with existing laws.

Additionally, the bill includes a provision that, once there are no individuals holding the office of county election commissioner in the state, the relevant statutory provisions will cease to have effect. The bill also repeals the existing K.S.A. 19-3419, effectively replacing it with the new framework outlined. This legislation aims to streamline election administration by consolidating responsibilities under the county clerk's office.

Statutes affected:
As introduced: 19-3419