The bill amends the Michigan election law, specifically sections 194, 195, and 198 of the 1954 PA 116. Key changes include the stipulation that candidates for various county offices, including county commissioner, are not allowed to withdraw their candidacy after filing a nominating petition or fee unless they provide written notice to the county clerk by a specified deadline. This deadline is adjusted to allow for additional time if it falls on a weekend or holiday. Furthermore, the bill clarifies the process for selecting replacement candidates in the event of a candidate's death after the qualifying deadline, ensuring that the replacement must be a resident and registered elector of the relevant district.
Additionally, the bill specifies that if a candidate for county office or county commissioner is nominated and subsequently dies before the election, the county executive committee of the respective political party must select a replacement candidate. This replacement must also meet residency requirements and their name must be included on the ballots. The amendments emphasize the importance of maintaining a clear and organized process for candidate withdrawals and replacements, thereby enhancing the integrity of the election process in Michigan.