House Bill No. [insert number] proposes significant changes to the scheduling and procedures for spring elections in Louisiana for the year 2026. The bill enacts Part I-B of Chapter 5 of Title 18 of the Louisiana Revised Statutes, specifically R.S. 18:419.1 and 419.2, which establishes new election dates. The spring primary election is set to occur on May 16, 2026, instead of the previously scheduled April 18, 2026, while the spring general election is moved to June 27, 2026, from May 30, 2026. Additionally, the qualifying period for candidates will open on February 11, 2026, and any signatures collected on nominating petitions after September 16, 2025, will be considered timely.

The bill also modifies campaign finance disclosure requirements, mandating that reports for candidates and committees participating in the May 16, 2026, election be filed by November 20, 2025, and extends the deadline for supplemental and annual reports to March 2, 2026. Furthermore, it grants the Secretary of State the authority to make necessary adjustments to election-related materials and to proceed with emergency rulemaking to implement these changes. Overall, the bill aims to streamline the election process and ensure compliance with the new timelines and requirements for the 2026 elections.