This bill mandates that all state elected officials and certain local government elected officials must be residents of the state and their respective districts at the time of election or appointment, as well as throughout their term in office. The bill amends several sections of the Kansas Statutes Annotated (K.S.A.), including K.S.A. 22a-102, 25-101a, 25-2020, 40-109, 71-1414, and 80-202, and K.S.A. 2025 Supp. 25-1903, while repealing the existing sections. Key provisions include that candidates for various offices, such as district attorney, governor, and school board members, must remain qualified electors residing in their respective districts, with failure to do so resulting in an immediate vacancy.
Additionally, the bill updates specific language regarding the filing deadlines for candidacy petitions and declarations of intent, changing references from "12 noon" to "12:00 p.m." and modifying the wording from "less" to "fewer" in certain contexts. These changes aim to clarify the requirements for candidates and ensure that they maintain residency in their districts, thereby promoting accountability and representation in local and state government.
Statutes affected: As introduced: 25-1903, 25-101a, 25-2020, 40-109, 71-1414, 80-202